Dealing with poor behaviour in the workplace.
Listen here
The expression, “nipping it in the bud” comes to mind!
Maintaining a healthy and productive work environment means addressing such behaviour effectively and requires a combination of patience, professionalism, and clear communication.
Before taking any action, carefully assess the situation to ensure that the behaviour is indeed a problem and not just a one-time occurrence. Consider whether the behaviour is disruptive, harmful, or violates company policies.
Approach the individual privately to discuss their behaviour. Choose a neutral and non-confrontational tone. Express your concern and ask for their perspective on the matter. They may not be aware that their behaviour is causing issues.
When discussing the issue, be a good listener. Allow the individual to explain their point of view and concerns. This can help you better understand their motivations and potentially find common ground.
Clearly communicate your expectations for their behaviour moving forward. Be specific about what needs to change and why it is important for the team and the organization.
Keep a record of instances of poor behaviour, including dates, times, and details of what occurred. This documentation can be useful if the issue escalates, and you need to involve HR.
Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies and procedures for dealing with workplace behaviour issues. Ensure you follow these guidelines when addressing the problem.
Offer constructive feedback to help the individual understand how their behaviour impacts on the team and the organization. Use specific examples and focus on the behaviour, not the person.
Offer support to the individual, such as recommending training or counseling if it’s related to a personal issue. Sometimes, poor behaviour is a sign of underlying problems that require assistance.
Lead by Example and set a positive example of behaviour in the workplace. Your actions can influence others, and demonstrating professionalism and respect can encourage better behaviour from your team.
Follow Up: After addressing the issue, continue to monitor the situation and follow up with the individual to gauge their progress. Recognize and reinforce positive changes.
Remember that addressing poor behaviour in the office is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment. Approach each situation with empathy and a focus on finding a solution that benefits both the individual and the organization.
“Unethical behaviour significantly increases the cost of doing business”
Frank Sonnenberg