Things you want to say to employees but can't because you're professional...

In a performance improvement meeting, where an employee has got his third "Development Needed" rating in a row on a leadership development programme, yet thinks he is misunderstood and his manager's have been unjustified in their ratings.

What I wanted to say "This is the third manager in a row to raise concerns about your ability to work with others and your failure to meet the objectives they've set for you. Do you not think you might actually be the problem here, not them?! Wake up and leave, already! "

What I actually said.. "I understand you feel a bit upset about this, but I think you do need to take responsibility and look forward at how you are going to meet the requirements of your performance improvement plan. You have three months to turn this around, or we will be seriously considering whether your future remains on the scheme."

Lesley

Apart from perhaps 'Wake up and leave, already!' I see nothing materially wrong with what you wanted to say.

Lesley

Apart from perhaps 'Wake up and leave, already!' I see nothing materially wrong with what you wanted to say.

yeah, true. I think I did say much of what was in my wanted list too. It was probably the tone of how I wanted to say it that was not so professional. Trying to resist the urge to shake the chap!!

I agree with you Robert, sometimes you don't need to sugar coat, depending on your audience of course. A more direct voice often hits home.

Agree Robert I would have said what Lesley wanted to say apart from the "Wake up and leave, already!