How to Deal With Insubordination
You are in a position of leadership. You have subordinates within your own team, but you are also considered a leader for team members from other units. Among those team members are friends you have worked with for years. One day you instruct a friend to complete an assignment before the day is over because it must meet a deadline. She refuses. What do you do?
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Instructions
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How to Deal With Insubordination
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Usually your subordinate will have a reason why she can not comply. You know the deadline must be met and the reasons are flimsy. First, you address her again, reminding her she is not just your friend, but your subordinate and this is not a request it is an order.
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She still refuses. You choice is limited. You will need to complete the assignment yourself. In this instance, you must inform her disciplinary action will be taken and you regret doing so.
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She still refuses. You must do the work yourself. Once the work is completed, you must write up your friend, and report her to her supervisor. This is always a tough decision, but it will impact you in a lot of ways if you do not do this. Others will begin to take advantage of you. In order to maintain your position as a leader, you must follow through.
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Depending on the friend, this may end the friendship. However, most people will realize they pushed the limits and apologize to you. Be gracious and do not dwell on the event.
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Tips & Warnings
When you promote, you will soon realize some friends will try to use your friendship to get away with things. You must set the limits.
DO NOT lose your temper. Instead, control it by lowering your voice and being firm in your decisions.
