How to Deal With an Employee Who Does Not Want to Change Shifts

Conflict resolution and crisis intervention strategies will help managers address difficult times with employees.

Conflict resolution and crisis intervention offer effective strategies to help managers appropriately and diplomatically address instances when an employee refuses to change shifts. A supervisor should address the situation early to avoid the problem from becoming habitual and to avoid feelings of favoritism by other employees.

Instructions

1. Prepare for the interview with an employee. A supervisor should ensure that what is being asked of the employee is fair and appropriate. For instance, unless it was part of the requirements for a job, one employee should not be the only one working on Saturdays or a night shift when others want that time for vacation or family time.

2. Suspend judgment about the employee’s reluctance to change shifts. Don't assume an employee is purposefully being difficult. An alternative reason could be behind why an employee does not want to change shifts, such as worrying about not getting compensation for additional hours worked, or a conflict in personal and professional schedule.

3. Build a respectful, professional relationship by establishing rapport with the employee. Show empathy for the employee without condoning the actions. Understand where the employee is coming from.

4. Address the situation by using facts and not by pointing blame. Tell the employee why she needs to change shifts and answer any questions she has about what this means in the future. Let her know whether this is a temporary or permanent change.

5. Be clear and direct by communicating to the employee the consequences if he does not change shifts. You are there as a business and as much as you might like to accommodate employee preferences, this is not always possible. Allow the employee to think about the decision before making a choice. Show respect for your employee by using a calm, even tone and being sensitive.

References

• The Crisis Intervention Handbook: Assessment, Treatment, and Research; Albert R. Roberts; 2005
• U.S. Department of Social and Health Services Administration for Children and Families: Crisis Intervention in Child Abuse and Neglect
• Mind Tools: Conflict Resolution
• Nova Southeastern University: Conflict Resolution Strategies
• Wright State University: Tactfully Confronting Conflict
• Center for Creative Leadership: Empathy in the Workplace: A Tool for Effective Leadership