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Running a business can be difficult and nearly everyone will experience problems from time to time. One of the problems that can arise in a company that is difficult and delicate to handle are those that involve unhappy employees.
Almost anyone who is in a supervisory or management position has had to deal with a disgruntled employee at one point. There are many reasons that a worker may become upset and feel the need to lash out. Common scenarios are about pay, time off, promotions, and office accommodations. It's best when these situations can be seen coming and diffused before they escalate to raised tempers, but you need to know what to do in each instance. The quicker you can defuse the situation and find a way to resolve it the better off you will be
Hear Them Out
If you find yourself having to deal with an angry and upset employee, one of the most important things you need to do is hear them out. Don't assume that you know exactly what is going on and why they feel the way that they do.
Take them to a private setting and allow them the time to speak and explain their point of view. You also need to listen attentively so you can respond to their complaints. Don't just allow them to vent while your mind wanders. The simple act of allowing someone to express themselves and what is upsetting them can help the situation improve. It's important that they know that they are valued and their grievances are being taken seriously, even if they are in the wrong. Respecting your employee's right to voice their concerns in a healthy way will go a long way to helping the situation.
Stay Calm
An employee who is upset can sometimes be hard to deal with. They become emotional and irrational. If this happens, do your best to stay calm and positive. Don't allow them to upset you or make you angry. You need to be in charge of the situation and keep things on track. It is important that you don't respond to any aggressive or abusive threats or statements, and don't stoop to their level in retaliation.
Make a Gesture
If there was an error or a problem on behalf of the company or management personnel, then make a gesture of apology and correct the problem immediately so it doesn't happen again. This shows your employee that you recognize you have done wrong and are willing to admit it and make things right.
Disgruntled employees can sometimes be simply stressed and overworked. You can help to improve morale by trying to make things easier on them if possible. One way you can do this is through multi-factor authentication software. These types of programs simplify the process of logging in to work stations and keep everything more secure.
Explain the Reasoning Behind Unpopular Practices
Sometimes, miscommunication or poorly described policies are the cause of employee upset. Take the time to explain your reasonings thoroughly and focus on the good points and the positive results that you hope to gain from putting the policy in place. Clear up and uncertain practices and terminology so further misunderstandings can be avoided.
A good relationship with your employees is important if you want your business to thrive. Unhappy employees are less likely to work hard and put forth their best effort. They are there to put in their time and that is all.
If you cultivate a positive relationship, it will be mutually beneficial for you both. The better your employees are treated, the better quality and quantity of work is accomplished.
It's best to have certain measures in place to deal with situations that arise with disgruntled employees. Whether that is having someone trained in Human Resources who understands the best way to handle it, or keeping all staff that interacts with employees trained in basic practices. As long as you have some guidelines in place, and are willing to learn and adapt to unique problems that arise, you will be well situated to keeping the peace with your employees.