The worst co-worker
consider a current or past coworker who has low levels of either job performance, organizational commitment, or both. You are asked to draw on concepts from the course to explain exactly why this coworker is so ineffective, and how you and his/her supervisors might react, given that knowledge.
Sample Solution
- Name: John
- Job title: Software engineer
- Company: Google
- Low job performance: John often misses deadlines, makes mistakes, and is not able to meet the expectations of his role.
- Low organizational commitment: John does not seem to be invested in his work or the company. He is often absent from work, and he does not seem to care about the quality of his work
Full Answer Section
There are a number of reasons why John might be so ineffective. Some of these reasons might include:- Lack of skills or training: John may not have the skills or training necessary to do his job effectively. This could be due to a lack of education or experience.
- Personal problems: John may be dealing with personal problems that are affecting his work. These problems could include health problems, financial problems, or family problems.
- Demotivation: John may be demotivated and not feel like he is valued at work. This could be due to a lack of recognition, a lack of opportunities for advancement, or a toxic work environment.
- Provide training: If John lacks the skills or training necessary to do his job effectively, his supervisors could provide him with training or resources to help him improve.
- Address personal problems: If John is dealing with personal problems that are affecting his work, his supervisors could offer to help him find resources to address these problems.
- Encouragement: If John is demotivated, his supervisors could encourage him and provide him with opportunities to succeed.
- Performance improvement plan: If John's low job performance does not improve, his supervisors could put him on a performance improvement plan. This would involve setting specific goals for John to achieve and providing him with regular feedback.
- Be direct and honest. It is important to be direct and honest with the coworker about their performance. This does not mean being mean or critical, but it does mean being clear about what they need to do to improve.
- Be supportive and encouraging. It is also important to be supportive and encouraging. This means providing the coworker with the resources and support they need to succeed.
- Be patient. It may take time for the coworker to improve their performance. Be patient and continue to provide them with support.