Evaluate the

information. The old adage, "Haste makes waste," has more truth

in it than we sometimes realize. Take time to evaluate all the information

surrounding the unsatisfactory behavior. Identify the potential causes

that may have created the unsatisfactory behavior. Is the problem due

to a lack of resources? Or, could it be a training problem?

Finally, determine

if it is an attitude problem or willful neglect. A too-quick decision

does more harm than good when it turns out to be the wrong decision.

Address the

situation. Once you have collected and evaluated the information, you

are ready to address the issue with the employee. Let the employee know

you would like to meet with them. Let them know the place and time you

want to meet.

Focus on the

problem, not the individual. Avoid your own pre-conceived attitudes about

troublesome employees. Employee X may not be the most congenial of your

employees, but you should deal with all unsatisfactory behavior regardless

of the personality of the individual.

Focus on identifying

and resolving the problem. If, after careful and thorough investigation,

you determine the individual is the problem, then focus on the individual

at that point.

Keep the communication

open. The ultimate goal is to resolve the issue and set parameters for

satisfactory behavior. Begin the meeting in a positive, but firm manner.

Allow the employee to express their viewpoint, but also share your perspective.

Establish expectations

and guidelines. Once you have taken time to gather information, talked

to all the parties involved, and discussed the unsatisfactory behavior,

it is now time for the next step. Clearly outline what satisfactory behavior

should look like.

Gregory P.

Smith shows businesses how to build productive and profitable work environments

that attract, keep and motivate their workforce. He speaks at conferences,conducts

management training and is the President of a management consulting firm

called Chart Your Course International located in Conyers, Georgia. Phone

him at 770-860-9464.

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