my worker is unhealthy at taking suggestions — Ask a Supervisor

A reader writes:

I’ve a brand new worker who’s very organized and bold and customarily competent, however she is horrible at receiving suggestions.

After studying your column for some time, I’ve tried to include your recommendation. I’ll say issues like “I’ve seen you’ve been doing this X approach, however we really do it Y approach for A, B, and C causes. It’s not a giant deal in any respect, simply one thing to control.” And her response will often be an extended, detailed clarification about why she did it the way in which she did, adopted by a purpose why her approach is healthier, however then additionally, usually, a thanks for the suggestions. I believe that what I understand as defensiveness on her half is definitely over-eagerness to indicate that she’s making an attempt actually onerous. However truthfully, it’s not a great use of my time to entertain these long-winded explanations, and I don’t know the way a lot she’s absorbing the critiques and recommendation that I’m giving. Is there a technique to head off the prickliness with out making her really feel extra insecure?

I reply this query — and three others — over at Inc. as we speak, the place I’m revisiting letters which have been buried within the archives right here from years in the past (and typically updating/increasing my solutions to them). You’ll be able to learn it right here.

Different questions I’m answering there as we speak embrace:

•  Telling a buddy I don’t wish to work for her
• Ought to I inform a rejected candidate that their guardian protested our hiring choice?
• My colleague gave all the ladies at work flowers for Mom’s Day