In both our daily lives and the business world, we encounter numerous challenges that demand our attention and proactive intervention. Curiously, problem-solving is an essential aspect of human evolution. Crucially, it not only aids individuals in overcoming present difficulties but also sparks inspiration for innovative discoveries and forms the foundation for a thriving market economy. As the saying goes, supply creates its own demand. Presently, numerous professions across different fields have experts who are willing to offer solutions to people’s problems in exchange for compensation.
For instance, management consultants offer their expert opinions and advice regarding organizational management. They assist in identifying areas of concern, devising strategies, and providing practical solutions to enhance the company’s overall performance. Business analysts are professionals who analyze data to identify the underlying causes of problems and propose optimal solutions. They utilize various statistical and analytical tools to assess business processes, pinpointing opportunities for optimization and improvement. The list of specialists with a narrow focus on solving problems in specific fields can indeed continue, but there are also professionals who possess a broader scope and can generate solutions for various problems. These individuals are known as troubleshooters.
Indeed, the term “Trouble-shooter” is a combination of “trouble” and “shooter,” originating from the technical field. Initially, it was utilized in technical contexts to refer to experts skilled at identifying and resolving problems. However, in recent times, the concept has been extended to the business environment and other areas of social life. In the business context, troubleshooting is the art of resolving complex issues by employing diverse actions. A troubleshooter assumes roles such as consultant, coach, mentor, and lobbyist, utilizing their experience to systematically fix business problems.
Troubleshooting extends beyond mere solution-finding. It focuses on continuous improvement and attaining maximum results with minimal costs. A troubleshooter strives to provide solutions that surpass their own capabilities, aiming for increased efficiency and better outcomes. However, the ultimate decision always rests with the client. In the present context, adequate management and timely problem-solving are no longer sufficient for ensuring success. The future belongs to uniqueness, new qualities, and creativity as key drivers of achievement.
Due to the diverse array of tasks that a troubleshooter is required to handle, this profession demands a variety of skills and extensive knowledge, making it a challenging field that not everyone can pursue. Consequently, there are only a limited number of specialists in this domain on a global scale. Nevertheless, let’s introduce you to a few representatives from this unique field and hear their perspectives on themselves and the advice they offer.
Iefym Shabshai, a troubleshooter with 20 years of experience, characterizes his work as a multifaceted process demanding creativity and resourcefulness. He echoes his colleagues’ sentiments that he is sought after when other specialists cannot provide solutions. Describing his services as a family troubleshooter, he terms it “turnkey family,” as he works with the entire family, not just individual members.
Certainly, Iefym Shabshai’s expertise extends beyond solving family problems, as he is also adept at tackling challenging issues related to personal efficiency and business. As mentioned earlier, resolving complex and non-standard problems requires being well-versed in various domains, which entails a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills. Acquiring such expertise is a journey that spans more than just a brief period of time. Many troubleshooters share a distinct life path that has led them to pursue this type of profession.
Iefym Shabshai’s journey began at the age of 13 when he started studying martial arts. Subsequently, in the 1990s, he developed an interest in religious-ethical and esoteric systems while simultaneously delving into acting, directing, and business activities. In 1992, he decided to step away from business and devoted his time to researching various self-development techniques. Finally, in 2009, he established his first training company.
Iefym is a prolific creator, having developed numerous methods and authored scientific papers, books, and a monograph. He generously shares his amassed knowledge and techniques through seminars and conferences. Notably, he conducts training sessions on personnel management, time management, and the renowned business training “Dreams of the Sultana.” Additionally, he offers business trainings to enhance intelligence levels and organizes offsite upgrade tours. In 2015, together with his wife Halyna Shabshai, he attended the IEA International Conference, where he introduced his new technologies. Remarkably, he became an IEA certified coach at the conference, a process that typically takes 2-3 years in comparison.
The geographical reach of his companies, offering services based on the author’s developed methods, is indeed impressive. For instance, in 2017, he established the “Shabshai SPA Retreat Center” in Costa Brava (Spain), and by 2019, he had already founded “Shabshai Technology” in the United States, providing main services under the packages “Turnkey Family” and “Turnkey Business”. Additionally, he holds memberships in five associations. This year, he joined the Association of Neuropsychologists of Ukraine, while in the past, he was a member of the American Psychological Association. Furthermore, he holds memberships in the Academy of Psychological Sciences of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Society of Psychologists.
Iefym and his wife, Halyna, lead their lives and activities hand in hand as both partners and colleagues in the field of business troubleshooting. Together, they have developed innovative methods and co-authored numerous books. They are also co-founders of various companies. During one of her interviews, Halyna Shabshai shared the turning point that led them into the troubleshooter’s activity. A friend, who was the owner of a large IT company, visited them and presented a problem that required a solution. The Shabshais quickly provided a successful solution, and upon implementation, the friend won approximately four million dollars in a year. This experience inspired them, realizing that their knowledge and techniques could generate non-standard and successful solutions, prompting them to venture into the field of troubleshooting.
Halyna emphasizes that a key responsibility of a troubleshooter is to assist business owners or individuals in gaining a broader perspective on their situations. The primary tool of a specialist is out-of-the-box thinking, enabling them to uncover innovative solutions. They then formulate algorithms and scenarios to be implemented in the business, effectively addressing the problems at hand.
As Halyna explains, a troubleshooter is an individual who can swiftly resolve a wide range of problems in a short timeframe, typically from 2 weeks to 2-3 months. Once the situation has been stabilized, a strategic consultant is often brought in to continue the company’s progress. The tasks entrusted to troubleshooters can vary significantly. For instance, there was a case where an employee within the company had a role that involved merely promoting slogans and offering encouragement to the manager, but lacked the ability to provide valuable advice or make decisions. Following the termination of this employee, the company’s situation improved, and subsequently, profits increased.
Halyna and Iefym Shabshai continue to progress in their life’s work successfully. When asked about how he initially embarked on this path, Iefym Shabshai mentioned in one of his interviews that it all started back in the 1990s when he prioritized spiritual development.
In conclusion, despite the limited number of troubleshooting specialists, their influence on business can be substantial. In today’s fiercely competitive and ever-changing business environment, troubleshooting plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of businesses. These professionals possess the skills and experience necessary to navigate obstacles, resolve complex situations, and discover innovative solutions, making them invaluable assets for achieving sustained success.
Troubleshooting provides a systematic approach to resolving business problems. It extends beyond solution-finding, aiming for continuous improvement and maximizing results while minimizing costs. Troubleshooters not only assist in solving current issues but also contribute to creating a long-term development strategy. They have the foresight to anticipate potential challenges and take preventive measures to avoid their occurrence, thereby ensuring the sustainable growth and success of entrepreneurs and businesses.
