7 Common Office Problems and Disasters Managers Face

A workplace is an environment jam-packed with stress inducers and challenges. No office is free from these problems, and it is not a good idea to sweep them under the carpet. Managers have to deal with them decisively, and react accordingly in the wake of disaster. They must be prepared for the unexpected, but also be able to surmount some common obstacles.

Gossip

Gossip tends to spread like wildfire and it burns the bridges between individuals. Moreover, when things get out of control, people start deploying cloak and dagger tactics. This undermines the productivity and collaboration within the company, which is something managers simply cannot allow. Some people just know no boundaries, so they must be clearly set. And no matter what, managers must keep their cool and address workers in a friendly tone.

Fair Play

Unlike friends, people do not get to pick their coworkers. That is why it is important that everyone stays on the same page. A workplace is a competitive arena where playing hardball is not unusual. Therefore, the art of persuasion and ability to solve conflicts are essential. Managers have to focus on non-team players and newcomers more, but avoid alienating them. Working towards an arrangement that is a satisfying for all parties is the best way to go.

Punctuality

Time is money, goes the saying. In terms of work hours, it can be taken literally. Being late is not fashionable, but downright unprofessional. Someone’s bad habits must not affect his work performance and time he shows up at work. This is also applicable to meeting deadlines and responding to problems. Time management is one of key professional skills for both the supervisors and workers alike. There must be no exceptions to this rule.

Emergencies

Sometimes the problems come from the hazards in the work environment. That is why many companies hire facility managers. Their job is to keep workers safe and healthy. Also, they are involved in hiring contractors for plumbing services, electricity, or heating system maintenance. On top of that, a facility manager is in contact with the leasers, conducting property management and office relocation.

Blurred Lines

Work environment produced many romances and relationships, but making this work is a tough job. Make it clear that the private life should be kept away from the office. Moreover, sexist behavior should be deemed unacceptable. Women often remain silent about these issues, but something to be prevented. Hence, reports should be issued to managers. If they cannot handle it, then the problem is taken to senior staff or the union.

Lack of Communication

If the company is to elude the devastating atmosphere of perpetual tension, the lines of communication must be open. Employees who feel appreciated and respected are more willing to give it their best and roll up their sleeves. Ultimately, this builds trust, glue which holds the whole collective together. What is more, staying responsive to workers feedback is beneficial because they are closest to the actual work process.

Productivity Issues

Some workers do not like to pull their weight, and take every chance to shirk. Those who are prepared to cover their laziness only add fuel to the fire. Thus, accountability must be defined and position attained based on performance and results. This also means nobody may take credit for someone else’s work. Managers must inhibit workers from jumping into high-profile tasks, and dodging monotonous work.

In Practice

Comfortable and stimulating office culture is something that needs to be worked on. A lot of employees end up dreading the Monday morning while managers curse the day they assigned for the job. But, it is expected from the latter to be problem-solvers and meet the challenges head on. The organizational structure can help them stay up to that task. Therefore, a rock-solid framework and formal procedures must complement informal arrangements and best practices.