Question

If a city staff member is having a personal problem at work, which of the following should Steve Hewitt AVOID if he chooses to counsel that employee? Provide encouragement and support Listen and give advice Get agreement from employee that there is a problem Help employee explore alternatives

Answer 1

Steve Hewitt should avoid the third option that is to get agreement from employee that there is a problem if he chooses to counsel that employee. Leader should show empathy and care but should avoid being an employee’s personal confidante. So, he should not ask questions about the employee’s problem. Good manager should build caring relationship and understand other people’s need and concern while still keeping the employee focused on the accomplishing their work.

Steve Hewitt should provide encouragement and support to the employee. He should set a tone of compassion in the office. He should check in with the employee occasionally by dropping by their office or sending a brief email to reassure the employee and to make sure that further adjustment are not needed.

Steve Hewitt should listen and give advice. He should listen first instead of immediately advocating for some solutions. He should be compassionate and fair in dealing with the employee.

Steve Hewitt should help employee explore alternatives. He should ask what both of them do together to address the issue of job performance during the difficult time. He should ask in what way he can support the employee. The employee may have idea of temporary arrangement like handing off a project to a colleague, some time off or more flexible schedule for a few weeks.