Dealing with a Disrespectful Employee

When it becomes apparent that an employee or several employees are being disrespectful of the manager, owner, or the company in general, then take steps immediately put this attitude to rest. Disrespectful employees can undermine moral and thus production in any business.

What is the real question?

Respect is earned, not given. As the boss, take time to consider whether actions have set up this attitude.

Has there been fairness among all employees?

Sometimes when promotions, pay raises, or even office relocations happen, some employees feel they have been slighted. If promotions were given, were they justified? If pay raises have been given, were the ones not given a raise, or as much a raise, counseled on how they could improve their performance? If relocation has taken place, maybe some employees were unhappy with their new office. People can be petty.

It is well worth the time of consideration to get a feel of how the employees were treated and locate any blame on the part of the manager, owner, or company. Forewarned is forearmed.

Has the manager or owner taken the time to interact with the employees?

When the boss stays in their office all the time and does not at least intermingle with the employees occasionally, they are considered distant. Worse yet, when the boss only comes into an employee's workspace to deliver a negative message, this sets up a fear rather than trust.

The manager or owner should at least check with employees occasionally, if only to ask if they have all the tools necessary to complete the task, or if they need any help. This action builds trust. It is a dreadful work atmosphere when everyone cringes if the boss is coming.

With the overview completed, tackle the problem

Sometimes, just taking the actions mentioned will settle any issues with a disrespectful employee. They may just need some attention. A boss that does not pay attention to his employees' needs sets himself or herself up for this type of attitude.

A private discussion may be in order. Never approach an individual while others are present. The employee should feel he/she could talk freely about their feelings. The employee may be satisfied within such a meeting.

Some people are just rude

Be as straightforward as possible with this type of person, keeping in mind legal consequences of words said or actions taken. Rude people usually do not take "hints". They do understand straight talk. A boss can inform an employee of expectations in the way of performance and attitude. Ask if there is anything the company do, or assistance needed. Always offer to help. Inform them there will be consequences if the attitude continues. Do not lay out the consequences in detail, let them guess.

Usually a disrespectful employee is just unhappy. Try to find the reason for the unhappiness and correct it, if possible. If nothing else, the employee will know they are appreciated for their contribution to the company and have an important part in the business structure.

Most people have a need to be needed and a good boss will deliver that to all employees before trouble ever arises.