Recognising and addressing it.
THE SIGNS
Deadlines missed Work below the standard Slow or no responses Having to chase constantly Problems you find rather than being told
WHAT TO DO FIRST
Establish why.
Frequently it is fixable: unclear expectations, missing information, too much work, a personal difficulty.
HOW TO RAISE IT
Directly, by voice, promptly.
Not by accumulating grievances and delivering them later.
WHAT TO ASK
Whether something is preventing the work Whether the expectations were realistic What would help
WHAT TO AGREE
Specific changes, with a period to demonstrate them.
WHAT TO PUT IN WRITING
What was discussed and what was agreed.
IF IT DOES NOT IMPROVE
A further direct conversation, and a decision.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Let it continue while resenting it Reduce their work without explanation Simply stop contacting them
THAT LAST ONE
Common and unfair. End the arrangement properly.
