What is the best way to deal with a direct report who despises you.
What is the best way to deal with a direct report who despises you for being promoted over them, and who pretty much discounts everything you say.
Alan,
this is definitely a challenging situation.
One way to deal with it is to make sure that you have documented (unofficially & don't use the "d" word)some of these behaviors & statements by the other person. Then have a conversation with them where you present facts (& make sure they are facts) then explain how you perceive the situation & the impact it is having. From there the conversation plays out whether the person wants to respond or not.
Unfortunately these situations are difficult & it could result in the other person needing to be moved to another area or team if that's possible.
Best wishes!
Dr. Ryan Meers
The way I would deal with this situation is I would document everything and keep a record of what was said and on what date.
It's easy to make you adversaries as enemies. It is hard to make them your allies. Individual approach. First find out the reason of their acts. Then try to attract them in a team. Ask what would they do differently. If all fails - fire them. Watching your back all the time is unproductive.
First document all communication, positive and negative. Second, meet with the individual to discuss roles and responsibilities. You do not have to be like to accomplish the team goals.
If that does not work, encourage the individual to find another position or risk being terminated.
Keith,
yes, the question here is: are they still doing their job & is their attitude causing too many distractions for the team? If they are still doing their job & not really distracting others, it may have to stand.
Dr. Ryan Meers
