Often, what appears to be a problem … is NOT the actual problem – it may be only a symptom of the actual problem.

Do you have any of these problems?

Ad campaign results are unacceptable

The PERCEIVED ACTUAL PROBLEM could be that the customers don’t realize a good deal when they see one. The ACTUAL PROBLEM could be 1) the ad message isn’t clear and the wrong media outlet was used. The SOLUTION could be keep the same ad message, but place it in different media outlet … or … change the ad content and try again … or … change the ad content and place the revised ad in a different media outlet. 

The sales team isn't selling

The initial PERCEIVED ACTUAL PROBLEM could be that the sales force is “unsure of the product or service details.” Digging deeper, it is evident that the ACTUAL PROBLEM(S) is/are the trainer is not that effective and/or the training program is inadequate, or both.

You are experiencing a cash crunch

The PERCEIVED ACTUAL PROBLEM may be that your customers aren’t paying their bills on time. The ACTUAL PROBLEM could be that you do not have an accounts receivable reward/penalty policy in place. The SOLUTION is to establish an accounts receivable reward/penalty policy – an enforce it!

Your employees aren't hearing you

The PERCEIVED ACTUAL PROBLEM could be that “the employees just don’t care.” The ACTUAL PROBLEM could be “inconsistent internal communications – especially those from the boss.” The two-part SOLUTION could be 1) the internal communications strategy is revamped and 2) the boss receives presentation skills training.