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If you are a business owner, or you are in a management position, you know the stress that can come from having to correct a subordinate. While you do not want to hurt anyone's feelings, you also need to make money. You may feel as though, despite your best efforts, your subordinates are simply not listening. As a result, you may not take any action at all, leading to lost productivity, lost profits, and an atmosphere of disrespect. Of course, the opposite extreme takes place in many business environments. You may feel that you need to be harsh in order to get subordinates to follow instructions. Some managers turn to yelling, threats, and intimidation to get their point across. This can also lead to problems, as subordinates will most likely resent you for acting this way, and once again, you find yourself with lost productivity, lost profits, and an atmosphere of disrespect. So what is the answer? Balance. As a manager, you need to be able to balance your approach to subordinates in all circumstances, particularly when correcting them. Essentially, you need your employees to respect you at all times, without fearing you. The difference between respect and fear is huge. When you fear someone or something, you do so because you have to. Employees that are fearful typically continue to work in that environment because they have no other choice. This does not breed a good working environment, and most subordinates who feel this way are prone to slack off as soon as you are not around, as well as sabotage your operation. On the other hand, employees who do not respect you because you have become a doormat will slack off in front of you, as well as behind your back. These employees will take every opportunity to walk on you, as well as waste your time, money, and resources. To achieve a healthy balance, you need to remember that you are in management, and you are there for a reason. You need to be firm, but not overbearing. If you are a business owner, typically it is you who is paying your employees. Therefore, it is up to you to decide where that line is drawn in order to gain a healthy respect from your employees. While it is fine to be personable and joke around with your subordinates, it should not cross the line into going out after work. On the other hand, while it is fine to sternly bring important matters to a subordinate's attention, you should never yell, threaten, or intimidate. When it comes to correcting subordinate's mistakes, you, as a manager, walk a fine line. If you feel that you are unsure of how to handle these situations, you may consider working with a business coach. A business coach can discuss your business model and your management style with you, and can give you helpful advice on how best to gain your employees' respect, while remaining in their good graces, meaning more productivity, more profit, and an atmosphere of respect. About The Author: Copyright © 2011. Stan Mann, CPC, has been helping business owners, executives and professionals grow their business and have a balanced life since 1997. Visit his website http://www.stanmann.com/ to find valuable resources and programs to grow your business faster. Get a free copy of his "Unlocking The Secrets of Highly Successful Entrepreneurs." It will save you years of struggle.
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