Tips for Managers

Communication is vital when delegating

February 26, 2020
Management is about getting results through people’s efforts. That means effective communication is essential. Here’s what to do.

Rein in a sarcastic worker

February 14, 2020
Suppose a productive, even-tempered employee makes sarcastic jokes and comments about work in general, his or her job, your organization—everything. Unlike complainers who are also poor workers, this employee’s comments are at odds with his or her competent performance. However, don’t use current results as excuses to ignore the situation.

Address mistakes with 3 questions

February 13, 2020
Since so many business tasks involve complex duties, co-workers and numerous other factors, accurate assessments can be tough. Here are three general questions to get you started.

Prepare to deal with toxic people

January 22, 2020
Every workplace has at least one bad apple. The person might complain all the time, gossip, insult co-workers or worse. If you are dealing with an employee who just can’t get along with others, answer these questions before you speak to the employee.

Quick—but powerful—feedback tactic

January 22, 2020
During performance reviews, an open two-way conversation between you and the employee increases the chances that the person buys into and will act on your feedback. Use this process.

Worker leaving? Think before you make counteroffer

January 22, 2020
Neither lashing out at the employee nor panicking over having to fill an empty slot will help. Instead, start with some hardnosed considerations.

Avoid sending 3 unintended negatives

January 2, 2020
Employees watch their bosses closely for signs of being in and out of favor. Half the battle is providing good feedback when employees do well; the other half is not giving out negative messages inadvertently. Avoid these negative vibes.

Show, don’t tell, to empower workers

January 2, 2020
It’s not enough to merely tell employees that they are “empowered” to make business decisions. The best managers find ways to show employees that they are empowered. Here are three tactics you can use to let employees know you trust them to make decisions.

Conduct accountability conversations

January 2, 2020
Don’t be frustrated about mistakes. Be frustrated by employees’ refusal to take responsibility for them. Follow this process to encourage employees to take ownership of their mistakes.

Put an end to the excuses

January 2, 2020
The next time a co-worker or employee says “I wasn’t sure what you wanted, so I didn’t move forward” or something along those lines, follow these steps.