Remember elementary school and the many different types of kids in your class? The troublemaker, 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 deal with difficult employees.

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.

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.

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 overbearing.

Be prepared– Having “problem-people” is never something you expect, but having thought-out solutions can help you when you are suddenly faced with them.

Get help! If there are people issues within the office, and they are not getting resolved, give Dr. Mimi a call at 407-628-0669 or check out our website, www.hullonline.com! We can help!