We all have a “habit” or a “tendency” that may drive our employees crazy.  I can see you smiling…you already know what it is. Some of you are a little perplexed and trying to figure it out. Let’s have some fun this week and work on getting rid of those “crazy” habits we have.

Done by an unscientific survey (asking people I know), the list below was developed.  This may give you some ideas on what behaviors can drive people over the edge. Are you guilty of this? If so, each has a solution.

“Faster to do it myself”. A person you work with presents you with a problem. Instead of coaching them or explaining the best way to fix it, you say “it’s faster to do it myself”. Ouch! If you keep this up, you will be doing it every time and no one else will know how to take care of it.  It takes more time upfront but it will save you time in the long-run to train/explain/walk others through the solution.

“I know…I know”. Your response to anyone telling you what needs to be done is “I know…I know”.  Really? Then why didn’t you do it? Listen to those around you, I mean really listen.  When they are done say “thank you” and ask follow up questions.  If they have a great idea – implement.

Hover. You have a tendency to stand either right outside someone’s office door or you “hover” nearby waiting for them to finish speaking to someone. I have been guilty of this and it comes from being impatient and wanting an answer.  However, this does not justify the behavior. Walk away! Yes – follow up with the person either later or through email.

Email then Call. Are you the person who sends an email and two minutes after clicking on “send”, you call the person and say “I just sent you an email about X”. Ok, here’s the question – if you are going to call why bother with the email? This is what the recipient of the email and call is thinking. STOP! Put down the phone and give the person a chance to answer.  If you need an answer immediately – call and don’t email.

Jump to Conclusions. Your employee is half-way through telling you a story or situation and before they finish you say “I know how this ends…..”. Here’s the thing – you may be right OR you may be wrong. Listen to your employee, give them the attention and it’s possible you will hear something new. Don’t jump to conclusions and if you do – don’t say anything. By interrupting your employee and not letting them finish will be considered rude.

Are you guilty of any of these habits? Or do you have others?  Share below in the comments.