Final answer:
When an employee ignores initial counseling efforts, a supervisor should engage in more in-depth communication while being calm and respectful.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an employee fails to respond to initial attempts at counseling, the supervisor should first try more in-depth communication strategies. It's essential to choose words carefully to avoid exacerbating the situation. By staying calm and listening actively, you allow for a better understanding of the other side of the story. Avoiding accusations and being open and respectful can facilitate a more productive conversation.
Instead of stating your case, try asking open-ended questions to learn about the employee's position. Restating what you heard from the person can validate their feelings and reduce misunderstandings. The focus should always be on solving the problem, not casting blame. Should these methods prove ineffective, it might be necessary to involve a higher authority such as a supervisor, HR department, or consider bringing in a neutral third-party if no internal mechanism is available.
Asking open-ended questions, actively listening, and focusing on problem-solving are key strategies. If these fail, involving HR or a neutral third-party may be necessary.