PERSUADING PEOPLE TO DO REVISIONS


     	It's a sensitive moment: an employee has invested considerable
energy in a project, and feels good about the work so far.  But you
have concerns the employee seems to have overlooked.  How can you
relay these concerns and help the employee make the necessary
changes--while preserving the worker's positive attitude about the
project?

     	Try putting the following steps into action:

	1.  SAY WHAT YOU LIKE ABOUT THE WORK SO FAR.  Look for
elements that demonstrate special qualities, like innovation or
foresight.  Try to find at least one generally praiseworthy aspect of
the work-in-progress, as well as a few stand-out details.  An ample
serving of genuine praise will make the next part of the discussion
much easier for the employee to swallow.

	2.  EXPLAIN WHAT YOU THINK STILL NEEDS TO HAPPEN.
Discuss the project's goals.  Explore what you think the project may
currently be leaving out.  Review one question at a time, paying close
attention to the employee's response to each of your concerns.  Be
positive--focus on giving the employee credit for the actions she's
already taken, and encourage her to expand on them.

	3.  FIGURE OUT NEXT MOVES THAT MAKE SENSE TO BOTH OF
YOU.  Give the employee a chance to suggest the steps to take from
here.  If the worker is stuck, offer a suggestion or two.  Agree on how
to proceed.  But make sure most of the responsibility for achieving
good results is still where it belongs: with the employee.

	4.  APPLY THE FINISHING TOUCHES.  Check in with the
employee to offer support, observe progress, and continue to provide
feedback--especially positive feedback.

Does that help? YES or NO