52: Seven Ways to Handle Complainers - a podcast by Dave Stachowiak

If you are doing any type of serious leadership, you are going to hear complaining. As I discuss in this episode, complaining isn't always a bad thing, but you need to handle it appropriately as a leader. In this episode, I discuss seven ways to handle complainers in your organization. Community Feedback CoachingforLeaders.com/feedback

1. Expect ingratitude “The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them. They have either lost confidence that you can help or concluded that you do not care. Either case is a failure of leadership.” - Colin Powell2. Give people time and a venue to complain

People don't always want a solution to their problems
Limit this time3. Set the agenda in advance (and time frames)

Have them bring an agenda to the meeting
Follow that agendaIf they aren't ready for that, you set agenda and send to them in advance

4. Require solutions to problemsAsk people to always bring a realistic solution along with any complaint
They know the issue better than you do - they've thought it through

5. Set time limits and stick to them (see details in the 6 Habits to Keep People from Wasting Your Time article)Let people know in advance how much time you have
End meetings on timeIf you need to, book something else after the meeting

6. Be frank with peopleTell people why you aren't taking action
If they aren't coming with solutions, call them on it. Share examples.

7. Limit your interactions with that person (try the others first)Gallup says that the best leaders spend a majority of their time with their best people
You don't have to always be available - schedule a time
Use caller IDCommunity Feedback USA: (949) 38-LEARN Global: +1 (949) 385-3276 Twitter: #CFLshow feedback@coachingforleaders.com

Two recent articles I've written on this topic that might also be helpful:

6 Habits to Keep People From Wasting Your TimeHear Complaining? You're on the Right Path

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