From the course: Difficult Situations: Solutions for Managers

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How to handle another's complaint about one of your employees

How to handle another's complaint about one of your employees

From the course: Difficult Situations: Solutions for Managers

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How to handle another's complaint about one of your employees

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- Your day is jampacked, and you're struggling to meet a deadline, but everything comes to a screeching halt when you get an unsolicited complaint about someone on your team. What's the best way to handle that? Here are five steps you can take. First, remain objective. Chances are, you'll be caught off guard with the accusation, but stick with the mindset of innocent until proven guilty. Ask questions, and get the details. Make sure you understand their side of the story. Most importantly, don't react to the information as factual until you've done your own investigation, whether the employee in question has a history or problems or is an admired superstar. Withhold your judgment until you know more. Second, commit to following up. Demonstrate that you are a professional and that you are responsive. Acknowledge the person making the complaint, and let them know you will address it promptly. You might say something like…

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