How Can I Manage Rule-Breaking Employees Without Resorting to Shouting?

A Shouting Boss

I shout at my staff as and when required. This is because I believe in on-the-spot blame or praise. This way, everyone knows their true status. They also come to know what they should avoid. But I have many employees who are breaking rules. What should I do?

Answer: You are someone who believes in bullying people. Consider using more tact than a loud voice. Your office is where people spend a good part of their day. They make a special effort to come to work, be present at work, etc. Please do not shout at a person in the presence of others. For others to follow your rules, they need to be made agreeable in the first place. Also, check all your instructions and communications for clarity, logic, and the right tonal quality.

Hi, I agree the One Minute Manager will work wonderfully here. Why do people feel like they need to shout to make others listen? Talk to them nicely - just like the One-Minute Manager - about punishing the things being done, not making derogatory remarks about the individual. Read it; it will help you to be a better person all around, not only in the office.

Hi,

It is very important to know the different temperaments your staff possess. Be a good listener; most of the problems you are trying to provide solutions for would have been addressed during the time you are actively listening to them. Remember, respect begets respect. A pause of thirty seconds can resolve minutes of anger. More importantly, study yourself and your temperament. This self-awareness will result in higher productivity.

Ajayi Olufemi
Abuja, Nigeria

Dear Peer,

When I was studying for my postgraduate degree, I used to think that people should listen to me no matter what, especially subordinates, and that I should control them, etc. However, after completing my postgraduate course and joining the Art of Living Organization (a well-known spiritual foundation) and participating in some meditation courses, dear Peer, I actually learned how to work in a group and handle a team.

Generally, subordinates may listen to the boss and then say other things behind their back. What is the use of such a team? If you are shouting at subordinates, you may be doing the same thing with your family members. Dear Peer, the scenario changes when you want to work in a team, achieve good results, and build up the team for the long run; you need to stop shouting at them. The team should always be open for discussion. Please come out of the old management style, be very simple and kind, and the subordinates will automatically start respecting and following you. This is my experience in my own words.

PRADEEP

Hi,

Shouting at staff only humiliates them and increases the chances of attrition. Making people realize their mistakes is essential.

Shouting doesn't resolve the issue; it just disturbs both parties - the one who shouts and the one who faces it. Let me explain:

A) Effect on you: When you shout, your blood pressure shoots up suddenly, causing damage to your heart and brain. I don't know if you have experienced this, but after shouting for a few minutes, your thinking power diminishes, and your response level slows down. You might reach for a glass of water, a coffee/tea, or a cigarette. This chain reaction damages your health. Forget about getting work done - your health is at risk. Reflect on the times you have shouted and consider the aftermath. There are cases where people have collapsed while shouting due to brain hemorrhage or stroke. So, the next time you feel like shouting, think about the consequences.

B) When you shout, you are sending the wrong message. I understand that perhaps the subordinate did not complete the assignment as per your requirements. This is an opportunity to help them grow. Communicate with them; as a boss, you have many responsibilities, but remember, your subordinate is part of your team - if they fail, you fail. Invest time in understanding where they are struggling and what obstacles they are facing. Counsel and mentor them. Even if they make the same mistake repeatedly, try to grasp the underlying issue. By addressing the problem in this manner, you are likely to achieve the desired outcome. Remember the term "Human Resources" - your subordinate is a resource to help you achieve your goals. Respect their work.

I understand that you may encounter difficult situations; in such cases, politely ask the individual to leave.

I am confident you agree that "No one is perfect, but as a boss, it is our responsibility to help them improve."

Take a moment to observe your hand - everyone has five fingers (some exceptions have more), each different in size but unique. Similarly, your team members have their strengths and weaknesses. Embrace their individuality and lead them together.

It was nicely written that shouting will not get you the resolution for your issues. Instead of wasting your time on shouting, which creates a long distance between your relations, you should find different ways to communicate your points effectively. Techniques like briefing and lack of motivation can be more beneficial.

Cheers,
Ashwani

Hi Peer,

I think you are not a shouting boss and have posted a question and answer for the same. Correct me if I am wrong. But, to my surprise, the comments posted almost resemble that you are a shouting boss. Can you address this?

Cheers,
Shekaar.

Hi Shekar,

If you read my caption, it really says "Sharing is what is shared with me."

The Q&A has nothing to do with me as a person...

Dear friend, Screaming or bullying around peers or subordinates is nothing remarkable; anyone can do it. It is akin to provoking a caged lion. However, a skilled individual will utilize personal communication tactics to instill interest in the person they are dealing with and encourage productivity and efficiency at a low cost.