I’m managing a former colleague who just can’t keep up with her workload. How do I handle this without being a jerk?
“I wish she would just find somewhere else to work.”
Managing a former colleague who is struggling to keep up with their workload can be a delicate situation, particularly when it comes to maintaining a professional relationship. The fact that you are in a supervisory role now and they report to you adds a layer of complexity. It's essential to approach this situation with empathy and a solutions-oriented mindset.
In the context of the fund industry, where performance and efficiency are highly valued, it's not uncommon for professionals to face high-pressure situations. However, as a manager, it's crucial to prioritize supporting your team members while also ensuring that the team's overall performance and goals are met. Rather than simply wishing for the colleague to find another job, it's more productive to focus on finding ways to help them succeed in their current role or identifying areas where they might need additional training or resources.
To navigate this situation effectively, it's recommended to have an open and honest conversation with the colleague to discuss specific challenges they're facing and potential solutions. This could involve setting clear goals and expectations, providing additional support or training, or exploring possible adjustments to their workload. What to watch next is how the conversation unfolds and whether you're able to work collaboratively to find a solution that benefits both the colleague and the team. A key indicator of success will be whether the colleague's performance improves and whether the team's overall dynamics and productivity are positively impacted.
Originally reported by marketwatch.com. FundNews adds analysis for finance & markets readers.