A typical work environment doesn’t always bring out the best in people. An angry boss, spiteful colleagues, stubborn subordinates—these characters create the everyday drama at work. The thought of it is pretty exhausting but it’s a reality for most people, especially managers.
Destructive employee behavior, intentional or otherwise, can leave anyone reeling or demotivated. That person may criticize you or your work, disrespect you, or simply disrupt the overall workplace.
In such cases, how can you avoid feeling completely deterred? What’s the best way to deal with such a negative person? Take notes from the following:
1. Listening is the Key
Sometimes, you’ll get so irritated with that negative employee that you won’t be able to focus on the real problem, so try lending an ear to that person. The best way to get to the core of the issue is to have a sit-down discussion with the employee about what the problem is. Talking may not always solve the problem, but it would can set things into better perspective and throw light on the way to move forward.
2. Stay Consistent in Your Efforts
A single discussion with that employee is not enough. It may give you a better sense of things, but it might not stop that person from being a nuisance to you or the office on the whole. This is the reason why you need to consistently communicate verbally with him or her. The employee may get defensive or act unexpectedly. Make sure he or she understands the company’s HR processes in order to validate your efforts.
3. Record All Behaviors
It is important to have all the necessary evidence if you ever plan on taking a drastic step against such an employee. What he or she says or does, the frequency and intensity of activities, etc. should be recorded by the manager. Documenting is not a negative act; it provides some proof to the employee’s problematic behaviors.
4. Be Professional at All Times
As a manager, you are supposed to stay composed and deal with a crisis wisely. You don’t need to get defensive or overly emotional because of that person. Instead, work towards solving this problem with utmost professionalism.
Every company has a mix of personalities and talents. As a manager, you should be extremely proactive in ensuring that everyone works towards not only organizational goals but also personal growth. Don’t forget that there will always be someone who will behave negatively. Try not losing your own behavioral balance at work.
Asavari Sharma
Asavari is a copywriter and marketer specializing in content creation, social media, and inbound marketing for multiple industries such as outsourcing/offshoring, eCommerce, SaaS, CX, and finance. She currently heads the content division at Think Little Big, a UK-based marketing agency, where she writes content for corporate blogs, landing pages, email newsletters, guides and eBooks, and microcopy for social media. As of today, she has bylines in MarketingProfs, E27.co, Thrive Global, SmallBizDaily, The Times Group, and The Indian Express, among others, and has helped 72+ businesses boost their online visibility with the power of content.
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