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Staff, One Big Happy Family?

By John Sarantakos posted 08-18-2015 15:00

  

When IPMA contacted me about writing a blog, I was like, what the hell is that? I know what a bog is; I know what a bong is; I know what gong is; but a BLOG? Turns out it is just some ramblings from a crazy old so and so. I thought perfect. There are only a few out there that are older and crazier than me, so why not throw it out there.

My first topic will revolve around staff. They are the best part of our jobs and the worst part of our jobs.

Thanks for reading along.

Back again. They said it has to be 400 words. I am rethinking this assignment.

400 freaking words, that’s longer than my dissertation.

I’m going to pound back another cup of coffee and see what happens.

Staff. We all have them. Most are good, kind hearted folks. Willing to accept assignments and direction. Maybe even offer up some suggestions. Dream about that for a second. How many of us are blessed by that situation? UMMM, none. We all have one, two, or ten that just didn’t seem to get the memo. Complain, stir the pot, whisper deception and propagate rumors. What is it that we can do with these folks? Well you can’t shoot them that’s for sure. My mom use to say that she brought me into this world and she can take me out just as easy. Then make another one that looks just like me. Scarring for a small child to hear. Might explain a lot.

Nevertheless we must find ways to deal with these people. Unfortunately I don’t have a magic recipe. Much is trial and error. The key is that you must try something. Each day that goes by creates larger problems for to you to solve. This type of problem might be the biggest, hugest time eater ever. So if you have all the time in the world, don’t worry about it.

Here what I have tried. Sometimes it works, other times not so much.

Counseling: Sit them down and have a good old fashion “come to Jesus” meeting. Clear the air and establish exactly what you expect. Let them have an opportunity to express what they see is happening. It’s funny what can come out of these meetings. Often times it is productive, other time it only sets the issues in stone.

Job duty change: Give them a challenge, something different that will get them thinking differently.

Job pairing: Match them up with a mentor. Someone with a strong personality. Someone that is respected. A pairing like this will often force people to see things differently.

Challenge them with something “new”: Hey, they might be bored with their jobs. Change it up and see what happens.

Confide in them: Share a big secret with them, one that you want to get out. Some good news that will create some excitement in the shop. Let them get a taste of spreading good news.

Whatever you do document everything and prepare to part ways if it doesn’t work. Truth be told, some folks won’t change, don’t want to change, never will change. Not that change by itself is or the unwillingness to change is bad. But workers that are paddling against the flow of the others at some point become counter-productive. At that point they must be removed. Of course, firing someone is another topic.

Hope this helps. Let me know what you have tried. While I’m old and crazy, I am always up for something new.

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