Your team member wants a raise but isn't meeting expectations. How do you navigate this delicate situation?
When a team member approaches you for a raise but their performance is not up to par, it's a tough spot to be in. You must balance the desire to motivate and retain your employee with the need to uphold performance standards. Approach this conversation with empathy, but also be clear and factual about what is expected. Explain that compensation is closely tied to performance and that you're willing to support their growth. Offer concrete examples of where they can improve and suggest a timeframe for reassessment. Assure them that their efforts are valued and that there is a path forward, but it requires meeting specific goals.