How should leaders address poor performance in team members?

Leaders should address poor performance in team members by giving constructive feedback and developing an improvement plan. This approach emphasizes the importance of clear and specific communication regarding what aspects of performance need improvement, rather than resorting to harsh criticism, which can demoralize and disengage team members. Constructive feedback is designed to guide individuals towards understanding their shortcomings while recognizing their strengths, thus fostering a positive environment for growth.

Additionally, creating an improvement plan allows for a structured approach to developing the necessary skills and behaviors. This plan often includes setting measurable goals, providing resources or training, and establishing follow-up meetings to track progress. Such a method not only addresses the immediate performance issues but also invests in the individual’s future contributions to the team, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. This proactive stance helps build trust between leaders and team members, encouraging open dialogue and collaboration.