Managing people is never easy but dealing with difficult employees is a challenge most people hope to never face. Unfortunately, employee troublemakers show up when you least expect it. The key to running a successful company is handling the problems before they get out of hand.

Successful managers know the solution to most problems, especially dealing with manipulative employees or difficult workers, is to have the foresight to see them coming. Luckily, the resources to help you have grown vastly in recent years. Keep these ideas in mind to keep your business running smoothly:

1. Take your time when filling any position. When you feel pressured to hire immediately, you may inadvertently hire someone that becomes a problem. A careful check of references prevents this from happening.

2. Education is a key factor in dealing with difficult employees. Managers may not have the right skills to intervene and employees may not understand what you expect from them.

3. Consider outside help if the problem workers are beyond your reach.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Proactively prepare for managing difficult employees

As the saying goes, 'An ounce of prevention is worth of pound of cure.' You can head off most employee issues by holding regular training sessions.

I recommend: Employee performance problems tend to stem from one of two places-employees themselves, or the people managing them. Make sure that your supervisors and managers have the training needed to handle any employee issues that could come their way by sending them to the Ultimate Supervisor's Workshop. Alternatively, take steps to foster a positive work environment by having all employees attend an employee workshop through ExcellentWorkplaces.com.

Know your legal rights and obligations when it comes to problem employees

In some cases, you simply cannot work out a compromise and you have to fire the employee. Make sure that you know all of the legal issues surrounding termination before you do this.

I recommend: Learn about the law through the US Department of Labor. If you have a hard time wading through the legal jargon, look for a labor and employment lawyer through Find Law.

Call a consultant or PEO when managing difficult employees becomes unbearable

Even if you do all the right things, you may still need back-up when the problem employees become more than you can handle. Consider calling in a professional employer organization (PEO) or a consultant when productivity suffers and company morale is sinking. These firms can see with clear eyes and can do the dirty work you may not be able to handle.

I recommend: Finding a PEO in your area is simple with the help of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations. Simply enter your state to access a list of companies nearby. Post your project for free on the PATCA website to receive responses from its members of professional consultants on what they can do to help.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Do not let bad employees overstay their welcome. The longer they are in the trenches, the more likely their negativity will affect the rest of your soldiers. Deal with issues head-on.