1. When they can't do it. The problem identified is in the selection process. It's very rare for companies to select someone who is incapable of doing the job they're selected for. More commonly, people are transferred internally into jobs they're incapable of doing. We think "Why don't we give Mary a shot?" Often, however, Mary's not a good fit for the job. The solution to this problem is to select for talent rather than experience; is this person a good fit, not just for the job, but for the organization?

2. When they don't know what to do. The problem we identified here was communication. Typically managers think that communication problems stem from the communication being ineffective or misunderstood. Most communication is one-way: managers give employees instructions and assume that they understand. Effective communication is a two-way process: the person receiving the instruction also needs to tell you they understand what's expected of them. Only when we have effective two-way communication can we be sure the person on the receiving end is clear about what to do.

3. When they don't know how to do it. This is a learning problem. The key to learning is application. Many managers show people how to do something or send them to training and then expect them to be able to do it, without any further coaching. It is important to show someone, but then get them to perform the same task under supervision so that you are sure they are clear on how to do it. Frequently people have been given the training, but they don't know how to do something until they've done it themselves.

4. When they don't want to do it. The problem in this instance is motivation. There are two components to consider when trying to get people to want to do something. The first is that they must believe it is worth doing. The second component is that they need to believe they are able to complete the task. Sometimes people think a task is worthwhile, but if you haven't covered the first three points, they may still feel they are unable to do it.

Keep reading our Weekly Leadership Tips for ways you can create a work environment where all team members are engaged, committed to your organization, and passionate about doing a great job every time.

Learning how to solve performance problems is just one idea from a vast wealth of information Leadership Strategies International has to offer about leadership.

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© 2007 Keith Ayers. All rights reserved.

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