In an ideal world, all members of a team would do their share of the work; in the real world, one person often lets the others down, creating problems and resentment. Here are four techniques for dealing with this.
* Make sure it’s clear what is expected of everyone, and put it in writing.
To avoid seeming bossy, introduce it with a statement: “In case anyone else is as forgetful as I am about what’s been agreed, I thought I’d summariseI ” * Make periodic friendly checks to see how everybody is doing. Offer support if someone is having trouble, but have an early-warning system in case a person endangers the project.
* Colleagues who have excuses based on their latest misfortunes may be trying to get attention in the form of sympathy. Express sympathy - and admiration that they will do what’s required despite their troubles.
* Watch for signs of progress from an insecure or lazy colleague. When it appears, praise it.
Jurgen Wolff is a hypnotherapist, teacher and writer. His free monthly creativity email bulletin is available from BstormUK@aol.com
