BizQuiz: Are you an underearner (Answer 4b)

4) B–Moderate underearner.

Underearners are excellent avoiders. Many underearners experience chronic interpersonal problems in their practices because they avoid confronting people or take the path of least resistance even if it’s not in the best interest of the business. They often have a strong need to be liked so they’re careful not to make anyone angry or create conflict.

Solution: Create systems that speak for themselves so you don’t have to be “the decider” in common conflict areas such as schedules, attendance, time off, and duties. Develop a manual that outlines policies in clear and unambiguous language. Write thorough job descriptions with clear reporting relationships. Review and update these often and apply them to everyone. Record minutes at staff meetings and post them.

Also make sure new employees sign a letter of understanding. This isn’t a contract; it explains to new staff members what was discussed in the job offer: salary, schedule, benefit eligibility info, supervisors’ names, and any other things agreed to at the time. Place a copy in the employee’s personnel file.

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