How to Conduct an Employee Counseling Session Correctly

Employee Counseling is a difficult but challenging function of the Human Resource Officer. This is to guide employees on their job. Counseling when used correctly will: 1.) prevent disciplinary actions or even terminations; 2.) reduce turnover and its associated costs; 3.) show employees that you are committed to their job success; 4.) help you against full legal obligations to employees.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A private area
• a note pad and a pen

1. Prepare in advance for counseling sessions

2. Hold the session in a private area. Choose a place where you won’t be
   interrupted;

3. Established a comfortable atmosphere. Emphasize that you are trying to help the employee improve. Set and maintain a constructive tone: be calm, professional, and focused;

4. Start slowly. The employee may be afraid that he or she is going to scolded or punished. If you appear calm and patient, the employee will feel less threatened;

5. Described the problem in a caring and positive way. Make it clear that you want to discuss the problem and how to solve it rather than blame the employee. Assure the employee that you realize he or she wants to do well;

6. Ask the employee to help you solve the problem or identify its cause. If you ask the employee to help you, your chances of solving the problem will be greater. Jot down notes and important points the date of the session and any specific agreements you reached with the employee.
   Also when employees understand you value their ideas, they are more likely to cooperate;

7. End counseling on a positive note by pointing out something the employee does well.

Tips & Warnings

• wear a smile and a peaceful mood.
• Beware not to intimidate the employee.

[Magentaslb]

on 8/31/2009 This is great, practicale step by stpe advice, especially in situations that require a light but firm hand... well written, 5*s :-)

[promax]

on 7/2/2009 This is great info. 5*

[gahazeleyes]

on 5/7/2009 Very informative. Thanks

[jpersing]

on 4/23/2009 Thanks for this relevant article on counselling an employee. I've done this on several occasions and it helps to be calm and professional especially when the counselee gets emotional. 5*

[2besure]

on 4/22/2009 Great step by step instruction on how to hold an employee counseling session.