Do you have an employee who seems to require non-stop hand-holding? They’re constantly coming to you to solve problems, can’t make their own decisions, and need a steady flow of feedback and direction?
If this sounds familiar, then you’re certainly not alone. As one of the leading staffing firms in South Florida, Future Force knows that most managers have had to deal with at least one employees who need extra help with seemingly every task and project. The question is: what should you do?
First, make sure you are providing your employee with the direction they need to get their job done.
For instance, if you have many employees coming to you for additional support and guidance, then it could be a sign you’re not communicating your expectations clearly enough. As a manager, it’s up to you to ensure you’re giving your people the information and direction they need to get the job done.
However, if you have offered clear expectations repeatedly and still have an employee who’s floundering, then it’s time to schedule a talk with them.
An informal approach typically works best in these situations. Get out of the office if you can, for coffee or to lunch. Not only will your employee feel comfortable – and be more likely to open up to you, but there will be fewer work-related tasks distracting you from really listening to what they have to say.
While an employee who doesn’t seem to “get it,” can certainly be frustrating, stay calm and be patient. Keep in mind, as a manager, it should be your goal to help your employees feel valued and comfortable talking to you, creating an environment in which they want to work hard and succeed.
One way to do that is to take a mentoring approach. You may have had mentors in your past who guided and supported you through your own career challenges; now it’s time for you to do the same for someone else. Not only will mentoring your problem employee help them add more value to the team, but it can also make your work more meaningful, as well.
In addition to mentoring, offer the skills training an employee needs to succeed. A well-tailored professional development program, whether it’s a seminar, conference, or course, can help give them the information and support they need to improve their performance.
Also keep in mind that a little encouragement can go a long way. Sometimes it’s not necessarily a deficit in skills that’s the problem, but one in confidence. Help boost their confidence by providing praise and recognition not only when they reach their goal, but while they’re trying to attain it.
Do you need more help hiring top performers for your team? Call the experts at Future Force. As one of the leading staffing firms in South Florida, we’ve been providing local employers with fast access to the area’s top talent. So if you’re ready for some professional help staffing your team, give Future Force a call.