What Can a Manager Do When an Employee Suddenly Stops Delivering Great Work?

When a highly productive and previously high-performing employee suddenly stops delivering top-notch work, it can be a challenging situation for any manager. Addressing this issue effectively requires a combination of observation, communication, and support. In this article, we will explore the steps a manager can take to identify and resolve the underlying issues, ultimately helping the employee to regain their former productivity.

Observe and Assess

The first step in dealing with an employee's sudden decline in performance is to observe and assess the situation. Take note of any changes in the employee’s behavior, productivity, and engagement. Look for patterns or specific incidents that may have contributed to the decline in performance. This data is crucial for understanding the context and identifying potential areas of concern.

Initiate a Conversation

After gathering observations, it's time to initiate a conversation. Schedule a one-on-one meeting in a private and comfortable setting. Approach the conversation with empathy, expressing genuine concern rather than judgment. This initial interaction should be informal, allowing the employee to open up.

Ask open-ended questions such as, 'How have things been going lately?' or 'Are there any challenges you're facing that might be impacting your work?' These questions provide the employee with an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings without feeling judged.

Listen Actively

Active listening is key during this conversation. Give the employee the full attention they deserve. Listen carefully to their responses and react with empathy and understanding. Validate their feelings and concerns to show that you are genuinely interested in helping them.

Identify Barriers

Work together to identify any obstacles that may be hindering their performance. This could include:

Unclear expectations Lack of resources Inadequate support from colleagues or managers Workload challenges Personal issues

Discuss these barriers openly and collaboratively. Understanding the root causes will be instrumental in finding solutions.

Provide Support

Once you have identified potential barriers, offer resources or assistance tailored to their needs. This could mean:

Additional training Mentoring Flexible work arrangements Access to tools or equipment they need More support from team members

Showing that you are invested in their success is crucial. Make it clear that your goal is to support them in any way possible.

Set Clear Expectations

Revisit performance expectations and set clear, achievable goals. Ensure the employee fully understands what is required going forward. Break down these goals into smaller, manageable tasks to make them more attainable.

Monitor Progress

Establish a timeline for follow-up meetings to monitor progress. Regular check-ins can help keep the employee accountable and provide ongoing support. Use these meetings to assess whether the implemented solutions are working and to make adjustments as needed.

Encourage Professional Development

Discuss opportunities for growth and skill development. Encourage the employee to take on new challenges or pursue relevant training. This can reignite motivation and engagement, leading to improved performance.

Address Any Team Dynamics

If team dynamics are affecting performance, consider team-building activities or conflict resolution strategies to improve collaboration. A positive and cohesive team environment can significantly impact an individual's performance.

Evaluate Fit

If performance does not improve despite support and clear expectations, it may be necessary to evaluate the employee's fit within the organization. Consider whether the employee is in the right role or if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed. This may involve a formal performance review or adjusting the employee's responsibilities.

By approaching the situation with empathy and a focus on collaboration, a manager can help the employee regain their footing and improve their performance. Effective communication, support, and a focus on personal and professional growth are key to resolving these challenges and ensuring a productive work environment.