Chipotle's COO shares the problem-solving skill he looks for in leaders

If you want to get promoted, don't just bring your boss problems — come to them with possible solutions when something goes wrong. Jason Kidd, the chief operating officer at Chipotle, visits roughly a dozen restaurants every week and he uses team dinners in every location as a way to scout talent for promotions. He said he looks for four qualities in the people he promotes, including how they respond when things go wrong.

At any company, including a fast-moving restaurant like Chipotle, problems are bound to arise. Kidd looks for leaders who can anticipate issues, take ownership, and find a solution. Those employees show they aren't waiting around for problems to land in their lap.

They're actively taking initiative to improve the workplace. The next time an issue comes up at work, take a few minutes to brainstorm possible solutions. When you approach your manager, tell them what went wrong, a couple of possible solutions, and your recommendation for what to do next.

That demonstrates leadership and initiative. You aren't directly responsible for every problem that comes up at work. However, by showing your boss that you're actively working to avoid adding another task to their to-do list, you're helping make their job easier and showing them that you can handle more responsibility.

This insight is based on Business Insider's reporting about how Chipotle's COO Jason Kidd promotes workers, and the qualities he looks for. Read the full story from Ana Altchek on Business Insider.