Managing people with a negative attitude is a challenge for managers and often gives them a feeling of frustration. Is there any point even trying? Definitely. For example, you can begin by learning to differentiate between real negativity and when somebody simply does not agree with you. A difference of opinion should not by definition be something negative for you. Consider it to be an advantage and an opportunity for discussion. But if someone in your team really does have a negative attitude, offer them your help.
1. Don’t shut yourself up in your office
Negative attitudes could start because the people working under you have a feeling that you don’t listen to them. This can be easily solved. Simply open the door to your office so that anyone can come and talk to you informally about what is going on in the team. Also make it very clear that you are also open to personal interviews when information given will be treated confidentially.
2. Find a specific problem
Talk face to face with a team member who has a negative attitude about everything. Ask short, open-ended questions so you can get to the core of the problem. Show an interest in what is bothering him or her and why.
3. Support teamwork
Don’t dictate what has to be changed. Ask all the members of your team how they have contributed to the current state of the teamwork. Then together find a way to improve it. Let the team itself set goals and solutions and give it full responsibility for sticking to the new rules.
4. Observe how negative behaviour develops further within the team
After you have agreed on changes check that they are being followed, both individually and within the team as a whole. Be aware that these changes will require your time and attention over a long period. Your goal is to make sure that a few negative individuals do not undermine the efforts of the whole group.
-kk-