Conomikes

Dealing with the Sullen Employee

The employee who becomes clam-like when asked to perform a task can be as difficult to handle as the one who rants and raves. This is a person you must open up.

It’s best with this type of individual, too, to wait until the initial encounter/ reaction has passed. Two days or a weekend is usually a sufficient amount of time. Start the discussion with the employee on a positive note. For example, you might say to a sullen Jane, “We get so busy around here that I don’t usually mention what a good job you do. I can always give you a project and know it’ll be done on time. That’s why the other day when I asked you to update the mailing list, I was concerned. Is something else bothering you? Let’s talk about it.”

An unexpected emotional reaction from the employee in the context of normal work assignments is indicative of another problem. Allow both the employee and yourself some distance from the incident, and then address bigger issues. You may or may not be able to solve the employee’s problem, but the opportunity for discussion will open the door for improved morale, cooperation, and productivity.

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Dealing with the Sullen Employee