Manage a Toxic Employee

Managers must always deal with a number of complexities, and sometimes there are no easy answers available. When it comes to a scenario where an employer must contend with a toxic employee, the most common response to dealing with such an employee is to fire him/her. In many instances, this is the best option available. However, there will be situations where the ability to fire an employee is not the first option open. Some companies invest a great deal of money in hiring someone, and they will bar managers from firing an employee as a first option. As such, managers need to know a number of basic strategies for dealing with such a problematic employee since termination is not a first-strike option. So here are a few steps to dealing with a difficult employee:

First and foremost, it is never a good idea to overlook serious flaws just because an employee is new. Yes, you can cut a new employee a little slack for the short-term, but it will become necessary to address problems in an efficient manner if it seems the employee is showing a complete disregard for the job. Sadly, some employees approach their position with a sense of entitlement. Establishing proper rules of behavior is critical with employees of this sort.

When you do discuss the matter with the employee, be as detailed as possible. Present documentation of the problem. This will cut back on the employee's ability to try and deny or diffuse the criticism. Remember, you do not want to debate the employee's conduct. You will want to present facts about it.



Of course, a little preventive maintenance goes a long way as well. One major reason why employees do not work out is because their job duties, descriptions, and expectations have not been clearly laid out to them. Consequently, they perform in any way they deem fit because they establish their own rules of behavior in the absence of clear clarification of rules of order. So, lay the foundation of acceptable behavior from the outset. This could reduce potential problems to a great degree.

When employees are not correcting their behavior after being told about it, it is best to issue a written warning. This will clearly put the employee on notice to cease disruptive behavior immediately. It is also important to document the employee's additional disruptive issues in case the employee attempts to challenge any adverse actions. However, a written warning is usually enough to make the employee fly straight.

When worst come to worst, be ready to terminate when the time comes. Some managers may have severe reservations about firing a problematic employee. But, it is important to look at the logistics of the situation when such sentiment may rear its head. In some instances, it is vital to fire an employee for the health and productivity of the office as a whole. All managers need to understand this since they all have a duty and an obligation to make sure their employees are productive in the work environment.