Remember being in elementary school? I’m sure there were many different types of kids in your class. The trouble maker, the rule-follower, the slacker, the above-average-kid-who-always-bragged-about- getting-better-grades-than-you, the list goes on. Now, these “kids” have grown up and some have let their grade school habits follow them. Here are a few basic tips on how to manage a difficult employee.
1. Listen- Time after time, listening to your people will benefit you. Not only will it show you care, but listening can reveal other problems they’re having.
2. Give clear behavioral feedback- Everyone has some “blind” spots. Give your difficult person specific information about what they have done and then outline easy improvements, or if it’s major, seek professional help.
3. If things don’t change, enforce consequences- Just like in grade school, (and life) there are consequences to actions. Adults should take responsibility for their actions which are inhibiting a smooth flow of the day-to-day operations. Be strong, consistent and firm but not over-bearing.
4. Having “problem-people” is never something you expect, but having thought out solutions and help you when you are suddenly faced with them.
5. Get help! If there seems to be major issues within the office, give me a call!