How To Manage Bad Attitudes
How to Manage Bad Attitudes
It seems like there is always one person in every group with a bad attitude. This is annoying, and it never gets better on its own, so the manager / supervisor ends up having to do something about it. The good news is that positive changes often occur if we take the right approach.
The DCF Method, explained below, is one of the most successful approaches to correcting bad attitudes.
D--Document the undesirable behavior. This means simply write it down and be as detailed as possible. While you're making notes, go ahead and list the person's positive traits, skills, and contributions. This will help you maintain a balanced approach to them and be able to show them that you do see their good points.
C--Counsel with the problem employee positively. Use the following guidelines for the first meeting:
- Stay constructive. Focus on facts and solutions.
- Cite the undesirable behavior and ask what they see as the problem.
- Ask their opinion about possible solutions to the problem.
- Ask them to refrain from exhibiting the undesirable behavior and give them your commitment to addressing any legitimate issues they bring up.
- Express appreciation for any positive changes they show.
F--Follow Up. One meeting probably won't change their behavior. Work with them until they show that they won't improve. At this point, switch from counseling to issuing warnings as part of the disciplining process.
Source: AMI's audiotape series 5 Minutes to Success.