How to Manage Employees' Bad Attitudes

Know how to manage a negative employee.

An employee with a bad attitude can be difficult to deal with and can hinder productivity in the workplace because he spreads negativity to others. Unfortunately, ignoring or complaining about a negative employee will not make anything better. Take the proper steps to help the employee improve his attitude, so the workplace environment is more pleasant for everyone else.

Instructions

1. Schedule a private meeting with the employee to discuss his bad attitude. Tell him how his negative attitude is affecting others by giving specific examples. If you make him aware of his behavior, he may be willing to change his attitude.

2. Ask her why she comes to work with a bad attitude. A number of factors can contribute to an employee's unhappiness. She may have problems at home or she may have been passed over for a promotion. Whatever the issue is, it is important to be understanding and sympathize with her situation to help her.

3. Tell him that you value him as an employee. Remind him about his positive qualities and contributions he made to the company. Make him aware that the company would not be the same without his efforts. If he feels appreciated, he may have a more positive outlook about his work.

4. Make an effort to involve the employee in team assignments. She may feel like the other employees don't allow her to contribute her ideas. If her current role in team projects is not challenging enough, allow her to take on a new role that requires more responsibilities.

5. Discipline the employee if he does not change his attitude. Make him aware of the consequences before you take action. Give him verbal and written warnings before you do anything drastic, such as suspending or terminating him.

References

• Career-Intelligence.com: Nightmare Employees; Cynthia Steele-Pucci
• Entrepreneur: Five Steps to Deal with Difficult Employees; Dr. David G. Javitch; June 2009