People struggle

Something happens in leadership when one is under the microscope of scrutiny. It is hard to see them as capable of turning things around. This mentality reeks havoc on your relationship with them and can be difficult to manage.

Here is some advice for dealing with the employee who is struggling.

1. Lose the sarcasm. A sarcastic attitude can be hurtful and demeaning and make the person feel incompetent. Try to understand that everyone learns at a different pace, and sarcasm is rude and unprofessional.

2. Listen to their issues and concerns. Sometimes communication in the heat of the moment is misinterpreted or misunderstood. Good leaders weed through the fluff and get to the root of the problem so you can fix it.

3. Give them a second chance. How many second and third chances have you been given when you mess up?

4. Do not cut communication with them. A lack of communication will only worsen the situation and the negative impact can trickle into other areas of your business. The last thing either of you need is upset customers because you are too stubborn to work effectively with each other.

5. Have patience. Too often we expect things to turn around quickly and when they don’t we get upset. Take a deep breath and try to relate. Be clear in your communications and take extra time to explain what you need to be done.

6. Be relentless and don’t give up too quickly. Finding common ground with people who are different than you is difficult but can be great for business. They bring different ideas and may have different strengths that can help.

These relationships don’t always work out depending on the issues at hand. But when they do work out, you will feel accomplished and proud when things turn around. Ultimately, the golden rule applies better than anything. You should treat them as you want to be treated.