Last updated on Jul 3, 2024

Here's how you can address underperforming team members while boosting team morale.

Addressing underperformance in a team setting can be a delicate endeavor, but it's crucial for maintaining a positive and productive work environment. When a team member isn't meeting expectations, it's not just their own output that's affected; the entire team's morale and success can be at stake. You need to tackle the issue with a strategy that supports the individual while fostering a stronger, more cohesive team.

Key takeaways from this article

Pinpoint root causes:

Initiate one-on-one conversations to uncover obstacles affecting performance. This empathetic approach helps tailor support and fosters a stronger, more cohesive team.### *Foster mentorship:Pair junior members with senior colleagues for guidance and skill development. This not only boosts the underperformer's confidence but also enhances overall team dynamics through shared knowledge and support.

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Autumn O.

1 Identify Issues

Before you can help an underperforming team member, you need to understand the root causes of their struggles. Engage in a one-on-one conversation to identify any obstacles they're facing, whether they're personal, professional, or related to team dynamics. This step is not about assigning blame but about gathering information to provide the right support. Remember, your goal is to help them overcome these challenges and improve, not to intimidate or discourage them further.

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Autumn O.
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I have had to deal with this exact problem in my previous role as executive editor. How I managed it was to partner up the most junior members in the team with senior members, and used that as a platform to enable others to mentor and teach. The under-performing members raised their 'game' as they felt heard and were able to gain valuable skills through the mentorship. The senior members were able to perform better too, as they grew insight into the struggles of junior members. I also created online spaces to chat freely about emotional issues, and provided team members genuine heartfelt listening. This overall improved my whole teams connection and work performance.

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2 Set Goals

Once you've identified the issues, work with the team member to set clear, achievable goals. These should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Setting goals gives the individual a clear direction and helps them understand what is expected of them. It also provides a benchmark against which you can measure progress and success, making it easier to track improvements over time.

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3 Provide Support

Offering the right support is essential for helping a team member improve. This could involve additional training, mentorship, or adjusting their workload. Make sure they have access to the resources they need to succeed and feel comfortable asking for help. Support also means regular check-ins to discuss progress and any further assistance they might require. It's important that they feel valued and know that the team is invested in their success.

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4 Encourage Teamwork

Encouraging a culture of collaboration within your team can help underperforming members feel more supported and less isolated. Promote teamwork by assigning group projects or pairing team members for peer mentoring. This not only helps the underperformer learn from their colleagues but also reinforces the idea that everyone has something valuable to contribute and that they are an important part of the team.

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5 Recognize Progress

Recognition is a powerful motivator. When you notice improvements in the underperforming team member's work, acknowledge it. This positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and encourage further progress. Make sure to celebrate these achievements in a way that feels genuine and meaningful to them. This not only uplifts the individual but also shows the rest of the team that their efforts are noticed and appreciated.

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6 Maintain Morale

Throughout this process, it's critical to maintain high team morale. Be transparent with your team about the steps being taken to support their colleague, without disclosing personal details. This openness can prevent gossip and speculation, which can be detrimental to morale. Encourage a supportive atmosphere where all members feel empowered to contribute to each other's success.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can address underperforming team members while boosting team morale.

1

2

3

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1 Identify Issues

2 Set Goals

3 Provide Support

4 Encourage Teamwork

5 Recognize Progress

6 Maintain Morale

7 Here’s what else to consider

Team Building

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Here's how you can address underperforming team members while boosting team morale.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify Issues

2 Set Goals

3 Provide Support

4 Encourage Teamwork

5 Recognize Progress

6 Maintain Morale

7 Here’s what else to consider

Team Building

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