Recognising and Addressing Changes in Employee Behaviour
Recently, we received a question from a manager about an employee whose behaviour had noticeably changed. The employee seemed disengaged in team discussions and appeared somewhat cranky, not their usual self. The manager was unsure whether to address this or how to approach it. This scenario might sound familiar to you, and it’s a common dilemma in the workplace.?
Understanding the Iceberg Metaphor
Think of an iceberg: most of it lies beneath the water’s surface, with only a small portion visible. Similarly, a lot of what’s happening in an employee’s life is hidden beneath the surface. At work, we only see the visible part. It’s crucial to consider that there might be underlying personal issues affecting their behaviour, which may not be work-related. However, ignoring it isn’t an option either.?
Initiating the Conversation
When faced with such a situation, the best approach is to start a conversation. Here’s how you can do it:?
This approach shows empathy and concern without being intrusive.?
Handling Initial Resistance
Sometimes, employees might respond with, “No, everything’s fine.” This can be tricky, but it’s important to respect their initial response while remaining observant.?
If the behaviour continues, revisit the conversation after a few weeks. You can say, “We talked a few weeks ago, and you mentioned everything was fine. However, I’ve noticed these [specific behaviours] persist. I’m concerned and want to ensure there’s nothing at work contributing to this.”?
The Emotional Response
Bringing up such topics can lead to varied reactions:?
If the latter occurs, giving them space and revisiting the issue later can provide them with the opportunity to reflect and decide to share more openly.?
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Persistent Behaviour and Follow-Up
If the behaviour persists and the employee still doesn’t open up, it’s important to balance persistence with respect. Continuous probing can become irritating, but a follow-up after some time shows genuine concern.?
The Importance of Positive Intent
Approaching the situation with positive intent and curiosity is vital. It shows the employee that your concern is genuine and that you’re there to support them. This mindset helps in building trust and may encourage them to open up eventually.?
Discovering Underlying Issues
Addressing these changes can sometimes uncover significant issues, such as workplace harassment or bullying. As managers, it’s our duty to understand and address these concerns promptly. Additionally, it might reveal areas where you can improve as a manager, offering you a chance to support your team better.?
Encouraging Open Communication
Encouraging open communication within your team can prevent such issues from escalating. Regular check-ins and fostering a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns can make a significant difference.?
In Summary
Addressing changes in employee behaviour is a delicate but essential task for managers. By approaching the situation with empathy, positive intent, and a willingness to support, you can uncover and address underlying issues, fostering a healthier and more productive workplace.?
If you’ve experienced a similar situation or have any stories to share, we’d love to hear from you. Just connect with Karen Kirton on LinkedIn , or send us an email. Your insights and experiences can help others navigate these challenges more effectively.?
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3 个月Sounds like a valuable episode Karen. I'm sure many people manager will have this problem with employees.
Executive Director at Association Executive Services with expertise in NFP Management Solutions
3 个月Great topic! It's so important to address changes in employee behavior with empathy and understanding. I've found that open, non-judgmental conversations can make a big difference. Looking forward to listening to the podcast for more insights!
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4 个月First step is awareness, so well done to the manager. Thank you for a grat podcast.
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4 个月Great topic! Addressing changes in employee behavior can be challenging but is crucial for maintaining a healthy workplace culture. A great share
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4 个月Great topic, Karen. Addressing changes in employee behavior can be challenging but is so important for maintaining a healthy team dynamic.