Resolving performance problems starts by exploring the root cause behind performance issues and determining stategies for performance improvements.
This is the first article in a series on performance management. In order to resolve a performance issue on your team, you need to consider a number of questions to help identify the root cause of the performance problem. Answering these questions will help direct you towards a strategy for performance improvement.
1. What is the problem? - start by clearly stating the problem without assigning blame. State the problem in the form of a statement like "X's behavior is negatively affecting the team's (or company's) performance. The results of this negative behavior are that..." Describe it in terms of the affect to the bottom line or to morale.
2. Is it really worth the time and energy? - make sure that the there is a cost/benefit or morale/benefit to putting energy into this issue. If you have a personal axe to grind that may or may not directly involve the person, be careful. Sometimes you need to take a step back and make sure that there really is a performance issue at hand.
3. Is it motivation or skill? - if you told them their job or life was on the line, could they perform how you'd like? If yes, then you are dealing with a motivation issue. If no, then they lack skill.
Once you have determined that this is a problem worth solving and considered whether it is caused by a lack of skill or motivation, you can determine the best approach to take considering the situation.
If you have comments or suggestions on this article, please use the link below to start a discussion.
If you liked this article, here are links to other performance management articles and blogs.
Performance Management Article Series:
Performance Management 2: Coaching Performance Improvement: Skill or Motivation Problems
Performance Management 3: Motivating Positive Performance: Understanding Motivational Needs
Performance Management 4: Motivational Tasks and Incentives: Individual Motivational Needs
Performance Management 5: Performance Review Tools and Tips: Choosing a Performance Review Tool
Performance Management 6: Performance Conversation Tips: Effective Performance Coaching
Blogs on Performance Management
Stress and Performance Reviews
Copyright © 2006, Joni Rose and Suite 101. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use will constitute an infringement of copyright.
