Manage a Difficult Employee Without Losing Your Cool
By VICKY BROWN
Running a business is hard enough without dealing with team drama. When you have an employee who’s making your stomach knot up every time they walk in the room, it’s time for a new approach. Let’s talk about real solutions that actually work.
Why Traditional Approaches Often Fall Flat
We’ve all heard the standard advice: document everything, give warnings, stick to policy. But here’s the truth – while documentation matters, simply going by the book rarely solves the real problem. What you need are practical steps that work in the real world of running your business.
Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference
Get Away From Your Desk
Here’s something that might surprise you – your office might be part of the problem. Every time you look at their desk, you remember that missed deadline. Every time they see your office, they tense up. So why not grab coffee somewhere else? A simple change of scene can completely change the conversation.
“…when someone on the team isn’t working out, it hits differently than other business challenges“
Skip the Vague Feedback
Instead of saying “you have a bad attitude,” try this: “When you interrupted Sarah three times in Tuesday’s meeting, it made it hard for the team to share their ideas.” See the difference? One leaves room for argument – the other makes it clear exactly what needs to change.
Look for Hidden Talent
Sometimes your biggest headache could actually be your secret weapon. Think about it:
- That person who questions everything? They might spot problems before they happen
- The one who’s always suggesting changes? Could be great at improving how things work
- Your constant critic? Might see things others miss
Give Them a Chance to Lead
This might sound crazy, but hear me out: Give your difficult employee a small project to lead or someone to mentor. Why? Because sometimes people who push back the most actually have great insights – they just need a better way to share them.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur jumping into a leadership role, a seasoned business pro with new HR responsibilities, or just starting your HR career – we’ve got the right path to guide you through your HR hurdles.
Check out the Leaders Journey Experience. This online education platform holds the LJE Masterclass, HR SimpleStart Academy and HR FuturePro Academy.
Not sure where to start – take the quiz!
Making Real Change Happen
Want to turn things around? Try this approach:
- Have a real conversation (not just a lecture)
- Point out specific behaviors (not general complaints)
- Look for what they’re good at
- Give them a chance to use those skills
What This Means for Your Business
When you handle tough employee situations well, you:
- Stop dreading coming to work
- Keep good team members from leaving
- Show everyone what good leadership looks like
- Maybe even discover talent you didn’t know you had
Need Some Help?
Sometimes talking it through with someone who’s been there makes all the difference. Just reach out
That’s what we’re here for. Let’s talk about your specific situation and figure out a plan that works for you and your business.
Remember, even the toughest employee situations can turn around with the right approach. You’ve got this – and we’ve got your back.
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