Finding a Cure for Difficult Behavior

Difficult behavior in the workplace can make everyone's job more difficult. It becomes contagious when it's not dealt with effectively, and it can make an otherwise effective manager ineffective. The ability to identify difficult behaviors and then deal successfully with them will help you maintain your self-control, objectivity--and credibility.

We've spotlighted five troublesome attitudes. Try the following suggestions to take assertive action and help employees take responsibility for their behaviors:

Negativity

• Put the responsibility on the person to find an answer other than "No"
• Remind them that finding fault doesn't create solutions; require them to instead be a part of finding a solution, and reinforce their efforts

Whining

• Have the person state specific grievances
• Ask for solutions
• Have the person implement suggested solutions

Blamelessness

• Create specific and measurable performance expectations
• Set clear dates and times for task completions
• Confront the "blaming" tactics
• Reinforce efforts to fix mistakes
• Follow up with expectations

Neediness

• Ask for updates on progress toward task completion; this will hold the person accountable for their work
• Give ample notice regarding meetings and the content of the meetings
• Give specific and clear directions for tasks
• Let the employee know that you have confidence that they can complete tasks competently

Insubordination

• Ask for solutions
• Look at the employee's past record to see if there is a pattern
• Remain consistent with your company's policies and remember to keep careful written documentation
• Take disciplinary action if the behavior continues and you have everything in place

To learn about more successful strategies for dealing with difficult employee behavior, plan on attending SkillPath's powerful one-day seminar Dealing Effectively With Unacceptable Employee Behavior. One is coming soon to a city near you.

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