Memos to Managers

How to coach ‘problem’ employees: A 4-step plan for managers

12/02/2008

When faced with a poor-performing or disruptive employee, it’s easy for supervisors to play the wait-and-see game and simply hope the situation will improve. But problems rarely solve themselves. And that’s especially true with problem employees. The best method? Meet with employees right when you spot problem behavior or performance—don’t wait.

6 ways to lead your team to maximum productivity

10/23/2008

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What managers need to know about the ADA

09/01/2008

When you’re faced with an employee or applicant who may have a physical or mental disability, your legal antenna should go up right away. That’s because the complex Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) gives qualified disabled people special rights in the workplace. Here’s what a manager needs to know about the ADA: Who is protected? […]

The Star Profile: 13 steps to becoming a better boss

08/28/2008

The 6 kinds of terminations … and how to avoid lawsuits for each one

08/21/2008

Terminations are the spark to many employment lawsuits. And for each of the six kinds, there are some common steps employers can take to make sure they defend themselves if the termination is challenged in court …

Are you a micromanager? Control the process, not the people

08/01/2008

As a manager, you must remain involved in your employees’ activities. But where does involvement stop and micromanaging begin? Sticking your nose too deeply into an employee’s work process can be counterproductive. Let’s say you overheard an employee refer to you as a micromanager. To find out if it’s true, answer the following questions using […]

How to master the art of effective delegating

07/01/2008

Writing reviews: Steer clear of two common errors

06/17/2008

How to measure an employee’s ‘intangible’ traits

05/22/2008

As part of the performance-review process, supervisors are typically called upon to evaluate employees on the basis of intangible factors, such as cooperativeness, dependability and judgment. The higher up the organizational chart, the more important those traits become. Yet most supervisors find intangibles the most difficult factors to evaluate, probably because they seem so personal. […]

Help employees accept inevitable change

04/24/2008

Employees are constantly facing changes to their work environment. Supervisors who are able to understand the impact of those changes on their employees—and are able to help them through those unsteady times—will earn their employees’ trust and loyalty.