In modern organizations, managers are constantly bombarded with data, shifting market conditions, and unpredictable global trends. In such an environment, one of the most valuable yet often overlooked skills is sensemaking.
Sensemaking is the ability to interpret complex situations, connect scattered information, and create clarity for both oneself and the team. Unlike problem-solving, which focuses on fixing an issue, sensemaking is about understanding what the problem really is and framing it correctly.
For managers, this skill means guiding teams through uncertainty with confidence. For example, during sudden industry changes, a manager skilled in sensemaking can quickly filter what is noise and what truly matters, enabling the company to adapt effectively.
How to develop sensemaking as a manager:
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Look for patterns instead of isolated details.
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Encourage diverse perspectives within the team to broaden interpretations.
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Continuously question assumptions and be willing to reframe challenges.
Great leaders are not those who know all the answers, but those who help others make sense of ambiguity.
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