Ops in Real Life vol. 3 | Kendall Solves It

In the 3rd installment of "Kendall Solves It", we dive into an interesting challenge directly from the community. This week, we're addressing a human resources adjacent operational issue, where businesses struggle with managing employees.

Community Question found on Reddit: How do you manage an intelligent but unproductive employee?

Kendall's Insightful Analysis and Steps

Well, there is a lot to unpack with this one! Sometimes we meet exceptional people and assume they will make great additions to our team, but what about work ethic? What about ensuring the person is a good fit holistically? Taking the following steps could lead to a solution of that conundrum.

• Take a direct approach. Have a clear conversation with the employee. Allow the employee to share if there are real barriers.

• Identity if this is an issue with work ethic, cultural fit, or challenge. I know firsthand that when I am not challenged, it is easy to become less engaged.

• Evaluate the on-boarding process to ensure expectations are set clearly at every step. Make adjustments as needed.

• Ask yourself: "Is this employee adding value?"

• Determine next steps: skills training, team building, cross functional tasks, warning, or termination.

  
  

Having the wrong employee on your staff regardless of impressive wit is dangerous and costly. It is never easy dismissing an employee, but as the CEO or manager you have to look at the bigger picture. If the employee is unproductive and not exemplifying the mission and working toward the vision, then I hazard to guess you know what the next step is.

Have you found yourself in this situation on either side? Let us know.

Community-driven solutions are so important to us. My team is committed to addressing real-world problems that impact business operations.

For tailored solutions, consider scheduling an introductory call.