Become Visible with Respect. Simone Janson

      Who leads must master the right balance in every situation - especially for young managers at first unaccustomed and delicate: When is it sensible to give in? In which areas, on the other hand, is authoritarian intervention more effective? Young managers are permanently in an inner conflict.

      Intermediate ability and empathy

      If colleagues complain to their supervisor behind the back of the executive, they lack the necessary decency and respect. If already complaints, then face to face.

      At this point, lowering and retreat would send the wrong signal. Therefore: calm but determined the conversation search.

      Clear boundaries

      The aim of the conversation should be to solve the problem on a professional level. Therefore, briefly and briefly ask for the professional reason for the complaint, but always remain appreciative.

      In addition, it should be made clear that this approach is in no way appropriate and is not tolerated any further. Afterwards, it is up to the management to inform the supervisor about the conversation.

      3 Tips for prospective executives

      1 React emphatically - as long as the complaints are brought up to you or the person responsible. Address the feelings of your conversation partner and put yourself in their position: "I can understand that you are now disappointed or upset." Your counterpart feels understood and is more open to a factual description of the events and a constructive search for solutions.

      2 Extend your elbows when you are passed over or behind. In a short (!) One-on-one discussion with your colleague, you should clarify your point of view factually: You are the first point of contact for problems and issues that affect your area of ​​responsibility. Your body language and your eye contact must underline the urgency without being threatening. If your colleague does not follow this procedure in the future, you will speak to his boss - you should also communicate this clearly.

      3 Respond vigorously when complaints or criticism are made publicly. If you are criticized in a meeting that is unachievable or overdated, be courteous, but definitely, to discuss the topic at a different time. Hot discussions do not belong to the public!