Dealing with a colleague who consistently makes errors can be as frustrating as a Monday morning alarm. But with the right approach, you can help them improve & boost team morale. Here are a few strategies to use: Active Listening:Truly understand their concerns & challenges. Validate Feelings:Acknowledge their frustrations & offer support. Sandwich Technique: Frame negative feedback with positive reinforcement. Focus on Behavior, Not Personality: Be specific about the behavior, not the person. Joint Problem-Solving:Work together to identify solutions. Set Clear Expectations:Clearly communicate expectations & deadlines. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge their improvements, no matter how small & Provide words of encouragement & support

Communicate privately is the utmost importance on a situation like this. Mainly ask them why they are making repeat mistakes, I find that starting with the why may help determine the root cause. I love to get to the root of the cause and see if there is a way to implement a permanent solution or reduce the rate of error. Often times it can be an issue in the process which allows a big human error rate. Seeing if the issue is a process or if this in fact is a training related issue. Coaching and offering ways and tips to prevent mistakes can help. If it still continues see if possible taking that person off that task will help and give them another task better suited for them. Working with a team you learn to be versatile.

If my team’s morale is at stake due to a colleague’s repeated errors, I’d address it in a way that focuses on solutions and support. First, I’d have a private conversation with the colleague to understand what’s going on and offer help, whether it’s clarifying expectations or providing extra resources. I’d also remind the team that mistakes happen and that we’re all here to support each other. Instead of dwelling on the errors, I’d focus on what we can learn from them and how we can move forward together. Positive reinforcement, clear communication, and teamwork are key to maintaining morale and keeping the focus on progress.

Best way would be to approach the situation with a focus on growth and support. First, I’d privately discuss the repeated errors with the colleague to understand any challenges they’re facing and offer constructive feedback. Then, I’d emphasize collaboration by suggesting training, mentorship, or process improvements to help them succeed. To maintain team morale, I’d frame the issue as an opportunity for everyone to learn and grow together, ensuring the team feels unified and supported.

I would address a colleague’s repeated errors by having cognitive coaching sessions with them privately, attempting to ask questions in a manner that guides them to their own answers. This seems to be the best way for long term growth and ‘buy in’ since the ideas will be their own.