Communication Strategies to use in the workplace has been the topic for the past few posts. This week it’s all about dealing with those people who are on the edge – the low performers or slackers.
Read the first article in the series:
Communication Strategies to use with Someone who Didn’t Receive a Promotion.
Read the second article in the series:
Communication Strategies to use with People Bringing Problems to Work.
I hope that you find this article helpful with those slackers in your workplace.
Communication Strategy #1: Make the Conversation Safe
Make the conversation safe by using I do want – I don’t want.
Here are a few examples:
I don’t want to discount your years of service.
I do want to discuss some performance concerns.
I don’t want to discount your value.
I do want to discuss how your behavior is affecting team productivity.
This strategy will help you create a safe starting place. You will be more direct after using the next communication strategy.
Communication Strategy #2: Use Be Direct with Respect®
Those of you who read my blogs know this communication strategy and it’s worth repeating as a refresher. Be direct with respect® deepens relationships and resolves issues.
I am ________________________
(Your emotional response)
When I ______________________
(Non-judgmental)
Because ______________________
(How it affects you)
I am concerned when I see productivity issues because you were a star performer a couple months ago.
Communication Strategy #3: Discuss What you Notice and Ask Questions
This communication strategy gives you a chance to discuss the changes that you see and how it’s impacting the team.
Here’s what I’m noticing…
This is how it’s impacting the team…
Where are you stuck?
These 3 communication strategies will give you a plan on how to talk to a mediocre person. The next step is to discuss the ramifications if things don’t change. Expectations need to be clear and understood.
I want to hear from you
Add a comment to my blog on how you deal with mediocrity. What stories or expressions help you get the results that you need? You will receive a response from me because I enjoy connecting with my readers! 🙂 You are always welcome to send me a private email with concerns that you are experiencing at work.
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Loyal readers like you help us find more people who could benefit from these posts. Help us help them reduce conflict and improve leadership skills and quality of life.
Learn how I can leverage my 30+ years of leadership consulting and coaching experience to help your organization address conflict resolution in the workplace here.
This is Joyce Weiss
Corporate Communication Strategist and Career Coach
Have a great week.
Until next time, Remember…”You Get What You Tolerate!”
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