The One Skill That Sets You Apart (and Most People Overlook)
In a world that prioritizes technical expertise, certifications and specialized knowledge, one skill quietly outshines them all - problem solving. Yet, despite its importance, it remains one of the most overlooked skills in the workplace. Why? Because problem-solving isn’t always easy to quantify.
Unlike a degree or a certification, it doesn’t come with a badge of expertise. Many people assume it’s a natural ability, you have it or you don’t. But in reality, the best problem solvers aren’t just born - they’re made. And those who cultivate this ability become indispensable in any role – but especially in construction, where quick thinking and decisive action can mean the difference between success and costly setbacks.
Just imagine for a moment the typical high-stakes meeting. Deadlines are slipping, budgets are stretched thin and frustration is growing. As the tension builds, two types of people emerge: those who focus on obstacles and those who focus on solutions. The difference? One group gets stuck in the problem, while the other drives progress.
But you want to know the best part? Problem-solving skills can be developed over time.
How I Went from Hating Problems to Solving Them for a Living
Whether in school, at work or at home, we all face challenges that force us to think critically. For me, it all started with those dreaded story problems. Do you remember those? Oh, they were the absolute worst. A train leaves Station A traveling at…well, you get the idea.
My math books throughout middle and high school were littered with problems like these. I’d wrestle with the available data, select an appropriate equation (hopefully) and work to uncover the solution. And I’d complain the entire time.
But somewhere along the way, I stopped dreading those challenges and started embracing them. There was something rewarding about breaking down a problem, finding the right approach, and ultimately discovering a solution. Either that, or I was just a glutton for punishment. The jury’s still out.
It was that curiosity and drive that led me to engineering, where problem-solving isn’t just useful - it’s the foundation of everything.
At its core, engineering is about tackling those challenges - figuring out how to build something better, stronger, faster or more efficiently. Sure, equations and technical theories fill the curriculum, but the underlying lesson is far greater: How do you systematically approach and solve problems?
How to Become a Better Problem Solver
Remember the high stakes meeting from before? There were those two employee types that emerged, ones I’m sure you would recognize well. There were the complainers, the type that spend their days highlighting inefficiencies, bad processes or failures - but stop there. And then there were the problem-solvers, the type that see the same issues but immediately shift to brainstorming solutions. Which group do you see yourself fitting into?
I vividly remember my first internship when my mentor challenged me on this very thing: 'Never come to me with a problem unless you have two or three possible solutions.' At first, it felt like extra work. (Also, how would I have known? I was’ an intern.) But over time, I realized he was teaching me a critical skill - the ability to analyze a situation and develop actionable solutions. He changed my mind set by outlining a simple but powerful framework:
Define the problem: Break it down into understandable components - what we know and what we need to solve.
Analyze constraints: Identify the financial, technical, or logistical limitations, along with any unknowns.
Develop solutions: Brainstorm multiple approaches - there is rarely one perfect answer.
Test and refine: Experiment, gather feedback and adjust as needed.
But what is so vitally important to catch here is this: these aren’t just technical skills—they’re universal skills that apply in any job, at any company, in any industry. And anyone can learn them.
Why Problem Solvers Get Ahead
The ability to solve problems and think critically separates highly sought-out employees from replaceable ones. (Read that again.)
Companies thrive on innovation and efficiency, not excuses. They don’t just need employees who follow instructions - they need individuals who can analyze, adapt and innovate. When you show up with solutions instead of just problems, leadership notices. You become a go-to person when problems arise, creating value, driving change and accelerating success.
In the end, you’re not just succeeding for yourself, but for your entire company.
Sure, engineering trained me to tackle ambiguity, look at constraints as design challenges and think methodically through issues. But you don’t need to design bridges or write code to leverage that engineering mindset. Regardless of your industry, or even your job title, the ability to think critically - to break down problems, develop solutions and improve processes - will make you invaluable.
Don't Just Spot Problems - Solve Them
Advanced problem-solving is one of the most valuable skills in the modern workforce. It separates those who drive change from those who just point fingers.
So, the next time you think you’re pigeon-holed into a role at work, or even into a particular industry, take a step back and ask yourself: Where are there problems I’m excited to solve?
I’ve done this a few times in my career, transitioning from traditional construction engineering into technology with absolutely zero background in software. What I did have though, was my engineering degree, or better yet, a degree in problem solving. That was what turned out to be most valuable in making the shift.
Thankfully, that problem-solving mindset shaped my career, taking me from traditional construction engineering to the world of technology. Both of which thrive on problem-solvers. But no matter what industry you’re in, success comes down to how you approach challenges. The best problem solvers aren’t limited by job title, industry or even degree; instead, they simply create impact wherever they go.
Oh, and if you’re looking for an industry where big challenges mean big opportunities?
Construction is cool, tell your friends!