Panel: Lori McLeese, Jason Shellen, Karen Walrond, Brian Mason
The panel consisted of a diverse group of techy folks who’ve bounced around in the business. It was basically a discussion covering how to deal with four types of difficult people and offered tips for each:
Staff
- If it’s obvious it won’t work out… don’t be passive agressive or wait… deal with it now.
- You can’t fire someone simply for being an asshole, but get them to agree it’s not working out.
- Document by email to make sure you don’t get into trouble.
- Dealing with difficult staff – TIPS – Timely (deal with it soon), Impact (make sure your message gets across), Private, Specific (be specific about the change you want to see)
Peers
- Dealing with competitors in a high performing environment – it’s OK to be competitive, but don’t let it get emotional – emotions get in the way.
- When someone is being a difficult, it’s usually because they are incompetent and you shouldn’t engage someone below your level. It’s actually a defense mechanism that they’ll only dig their heels in further.
Business Partners
- Set expectations up front, in detail, vocalized, and documented repeatedly.
- Look at choices – can you or can’t you work with them.
- Partnership is a 2 way street. If they violate your core values, abandon the partnership.
The Boss
- Deal with it, or look for a way out.
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