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Problem solving requires a concerted effort

Problem solving requires a concerted effort

It is important for employer and employee to have and maintain regular discussions. About work but also about other matters. Sometimes problems arise and it is difficult to discuss them. Still, this is an important first step in solving problems and not letting them get any bigger than they are.

Putting problems on the table

Unaddressed problems can lead to mutual frustration, misunderstanding and conflict. The employee experiences more stress and tension, possibly resulting in more health issues. The employer is concerned about the employee's well-being but is unable to find an entry point for a conversation. This is not good for either party. That's why we recommend not avoiding problems, putting them on the table and finding a solution together. Below you will find tips for starting a conversation and what steps are needed to find a solution.

 

Tips for the employer

  • Schedule a meeting with the employee and reserve sufficient time.
  • Clearly state your concern(s).
  • Make clear the implications for you as an employer or manager.
  • Indicate that you want to work toward a solution together and what goal you want to achieve.
  • In the conversation, make sure you hear, acknowledge and understand the employee's objections.
  • Recognize and value the employee's contribution and accomplishments.
  • Ask the employee to indicate what is necessary for him or her to achieve the goal. What can the employee himself contribute to this? What support, if any, is needed? And within what time frame can this be achieved?

Tips for the employee

  • Engage in timely discussions with your employer. Ignoring problems often only leads to bigger problems.
  • If you are invited yourself, you can always ask what the interview is about so you can prepare for the interview.
  • Clearly state your concerns.
  • Work with your employer to find solutions and make good working arrangements.
  • Do you need support with the conversation? Then enlist the help of a confidant.
  • Make an appointment with the company doctor if there are medical issues affecting employability.

Topics to discuss

  • Work overload.
  • Insufficient job satisfaction.
  • Difficult cooperation with colleagues or supervisor.
  • Bullying, aggression or discrimination in the workplace.
  • Difficulty with organizational changes such as reorganization.
  • Private concerns or tasks that put pressure on the work-life balance.
  • Knowledge and/or skills no longer match what is needed in the job.
  • Disagreement over work performance.

Three steps to a solution

  1. Talking together
    Talk together and use the tips for employee and employer. Can't work it out together? Then enlist support for a three-way discussion.
  2. Support in an interview
    At a three-way discussion, an independent party is present in addition to the employer and the employee. This can be someone from your own organization. Is this not possible or desirable? An employability coach from ZekerArbo offers a solution for supporting an interview without labor conflict. When there is a labor conflict, other guidance is needed, such as mediation. ZekerArbo can also help with this.
  3. Specific support
    If there are problems at work or in the work-life balance, coaching can be an important tool. Sometimes medical issues in relation to work play a (possible) role. Involve the occupational health physician in a timely manner so that the right follow-up steps can be taken together.

Incidental

If it doesn't work out together

Despite multiple attempts to discuss and resolve the problems, this does not always work. If you can't work things out together, make a decision. Accept the situation or agree on another form of cooperation or farewell. Don't forget to involve the company doctor for medical issues that affect work.