What’s Wrong With My Employees?

As a small business owner, your employees are the lifeline of your business. And, when your employees aren't performing at a level they should be, it can be very frustrating. Oftentimes, when you try to work with your employees and solve these issues, the walls go up and nothing seems to work. The reason for this is that 85% of all issues in the workplace that are affecting performance are personal issues. As their manager, your employees will usually not open up about these issues, leaving you clueless as to what is going on, and not quite sure what to do about it. If this is happening in your business, here are a couple of things that you can do to help your situation:

1. Acknowledge the issue

The first step is to bring the performance issue to the attention of your employee. This may sound basic, but I have run across many situations where a manager complains about the performance of an employee, but hasn't even talked to the employee about it! This is a key first step.

2. Set some clear goals and timelines for improvement

Once the issue is out in the open, let your employee know what the expectations are, when you expect them to meet these expectations, and what will happen if they aren't met. You need to be able to track and measure progress, so that you can hold them accountable to making the necessary changes.

3. Provide the tools and support structure they need

Let's face it - change is tough. Therefore, make sure that your employees have the tools they need to make the changes you are requesting. Also, be sure to provide and create a supportive environment for change.

4. Hire a professional coach

Since 85% of all the issues facing your employees are personal issues that they won't talk to you about, hiring an outside professional coach can do wonders when it comes to addressing productivity issues. An outside coach works in the context of confidentiality, and therefore provides a safe place where the employee can open up about these issues, and they can be addressed effectively. This can have a profound impact on your business!

In summary, realize that as a business owner, your employees are a big key to the success of your business. Also realize that sometimes they aren't going to be forthcoming about what is going on with them. If you are able to realize your limitations in solving these issues, and follow the steps above, you should be well on your way to a highly motivated and productive staff!