How can you use negotiation to resolve performance issues?

2 Initiate the conversation

The next step is to initiate the conversation with the employee. You should choose a suitable time and place, and approach the employee respectfully and professionally. You should explain the purpose and the agenda of the conversation, and invite the employee to share their views and concerns. You should also establish rapport, trust, and openness with the employee. Initiating the conversation will help you set the tone, create a positive atmosphere, and engage the employee.

3 Listen actively and empathetically

The third step is to listen actively and empathetically to the employee. You should pay attention to what they say, how they say it, and what they imply. You should also ask open-ended questions, paraphrase, summarize, and reflect back what you hear. You should also acknowledge their feelings, emotions, and frustrations. Listening actively and empathetically will help you understand the employee's situation, perspective, and needs, and show them that you care and respect them.

5 Negotiate and agree on a solution

The fifth step is to negotiate and agree on a solution with the employee. You should focus on the common ground, the shared interests, and the mutual benefits. You should also avoid positional bargaining, ultimatums, and threats. You should also be flexible, cooperative, and respectful. You should also seek feedback, confirmation, and commitment from the employee. Negotiating and agreeing on a solution will help you reach a win-win outcome that satisfies both parties and resolves the performance issue.

6 Follow up and monitor progress

The final step is to follow up and monitor progress with the employee. You should document and communicate the agreed solution, the action plan, the responsibilities, and the deadlines. You should also provide support, guidance, and resources to the employee. You should also track and measure the results, and provide feedback, recognition, and reinforcement to the employee. You should also review and adjust the solution if needed. Following up and monitoring progress will help you ensure the implementation, the improvement, and the sustainability of the solution.