How to address difficult issues with an employee
If your employee is no longer able to carry out their normal tasks or you are otherwise worried about their behaviour, you should discuss the matter with them. However, sometimes it is hard to address difficult issues. We can provide tips for these situations.
“But it’s not my business” – or is it?
You should be worried when your employee’s concerns – regardless of whether they originate in working or private life – start to influence their work performance.
You may already notice subtle signs that something is not right before actual problems begin. These so-called tacit signals can be:
• difficulty concentrating and negligence
• memory issues
• prolonged workdays and frequent overtime
• constant tardiness
• neglecting responsibilities and timetables
• untidy appearance
• decline in work motivation.
You should initiate a discussion if you notice even small changes in your employee’s behaviour. This ensures that problems do not escalate.
-
Case example: Matti
Matti moves to a new team at his workplace, but immediately asks for time off due to symptoms of strain. Read more about how you should act as a supervisor.
Read Matti's case example -
Case example: Milla
Milla's workplace switches to remote work, and Milla’s behaviour begins to change after a few weeks. Read more about how you should act as a supervisor.
Read Milla's case example
How do you discuss difficult issues?
We provide tips for addressing issues
- How should you prepare for the discussion?
- How do you lead the discussion?
- What should you do during the discussion?
- What happens after the discussion?
Getting started
-
Start using our guide
Our free guide for our customers explains what you should take into account when you talk to your employee
Order the guide -
Remember to write things down
It is important to write down what you have agreed on together. A free form for our customers provides support for the early support discussion.
Order the form -
Learn the basics
These 10-minute course modules will show you how to intervene in concerns at an early stage and build an atmosphere in which people can bring up problems.
Go to the online learning environment
Have you already tried your free benefits?
-
Surveys
Do you know how your employees are doing? Use surveys to obtain information about your employees’ work ability and work vibe.
Start using the surveys -
Online learning environment
Take advantage of our short courses – complete them when it best suits you.
Start learning -
Online sparring sessions
Our specialists can help you with questions related to work ability and rehabilitation.
Book a session