No matter what type of job you manage or what sector of work you're in, there are always difficult employees, that make you feel more like a babysitter then a boss – it's basic human nature for at least one person to be that “pain in your neck” that you have to deal with.
Managing difficult employees is easier by incorporating a few simple rules:
Communication
This is a “given” to have good communication with your employees. Miscommunication is one of the easiest ways to break down the rapport between two or more people. One way that Maintenance Tracking Software helps is that there aren't any lost notes or scribbled instructions. Instead, the maintenance work order is set up on the software system and given out to the employee via the app. They won't misunderstand you on the phone and there's no way of not being able to see the what, when, who, and where of a work task. On the other side of this tip is to listen to your employee when they bring up an issue – and really listen. Don't just act like you are and dismiss them – sometimes it may be something extremely important that you ignore.
Lead by Example
There is no way that an employee, and especially a difficult one, will become better if they see you doing the same things. If you don't follow through with what you promise or show yourself being complacent, your employees will start to do the same thing and the work will suffer. Show why you're in charge by making decisions that follow regulations and show that hard work pays off.
Be Compassionate
Let's face it, sometimes we don't get along with someone and that's okay. However, you have to sometimes put yourself in the other person's shoes. Are they continually late due to problems at home or lack of transportation? Are they seemingly lazy because they're tired due to lack of sleep from a medical condition? Do they have other things on their mind due to family issues? Sure, you're not their loved one, priest, or counselor but sometimes by trying to understand the problem, you can help correct it without being a pushover or looking like someone they can take advantage of.
Read More: Take It On The Go
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