Skill 1: Analytical Thinking

This series of articles explores the top 10 skills of 2023 identified by the World Economic Forum, providing a guide to make them accessible to all individuals. Here at NeuroQuest AI, we have developed a tool called Power Skills that extracts the competencies mentioned in these articles, having extensively studied the 10 competencies outlined by the World Economic Forum.

Definition of Analytical Thinking:

Analytical thinking is a form of thought aimed at explaining things through decomposition into simpler parts, which are more easily explained or solved. Once understood, these parts make it possible to comprehend the whole. The behavior of the whole is thus explained by the behavior of its parts. These parts can generally be conveyed to another person by the thinker. (Source: Wikipedia).

Focus on Analytical Thinking

As noted in the definition, analytical thinking is the ability to formulate questions, explore possibilities, propose hypotheses, and offer potential answers. There are technical skills that can be taught to empower an individual to question situations and formulate theories.

However, it goes beyond acquiring a specific skill. To analyze, one must be someone capable of accessing innate abilities to challenge and question.

Analytical thinking is more than a set of techniques; it is a mindset that cannot be fully transmitted through a course. While it is possible to understand analytical models like SWOT or PEST, these are merely diagrams without a certain insight. Process diagrams can be taught, but these lessons will be limited without the intuition to seek unique answers.

So, what mindset is required to develop skilled analytical thinkers? It is the sense of duty to dissent and the desire to unravel and explore the world around you. You need the character of someone who refuses to accept the status quo and believes in the first explanations offered. It is an attitude that immediately challenges commonly accepted truths and demands more details from anyone in authority.

It is evident why this “skill” as labelled by the World Economic Forum, is so crucial in a world that seems to be constantly in crisis. Each day, the news presents new challenges, prompting us to question their meaning and impact on our lives. Having the presence of mind to question the relevance of the news and whether it demands a change of direction is essential, even questioning the veracity of the information received.

Encouraging Analytical Thinking Among Employees

Developing the mindset of questioning requires practice, and it is helpful to start small and build the confidence needed for more substantial questions.

To instigate these skills in employees, encourage them to pose a weekly question during team meetings, focusing on “why” or “how” inquiries. Our minds, like the muscles in our arms, need daily exercises to strengthen. Therefore, if you aspire to have analytical employees, encourage them to practice actively. Demand that they present questions assessing why you are doing what you are doing and how it contributes to improving the workplace.

Remember, analytical thinkers thrive in a culture that recognizes the power of dissent. Communicate that expressing opinions and challenging work practices is not only acceptable but also celebrated.

While this quality of character may exist in individuals on your team, it can only flourish in your organizational culture with structural intervention. Your entire organization must value analytical thinkers, from new recruits to those on the verge of retirement.

Conclusion

• Being analytical goes far beyond a skill; it is a mindset;
• Developing this mindset involves daily challenges and exploration until it becomes the way you perceive the world;
• The process can begin with simple questions, such as “why” and “how”.

Read about the next skill: Creative Thinking

Written by: Ederson Corbari