Analyzing Performance Problems

Analyzing Performance Problems: Or, You Really Oughta Wanna – How to Figure out Why People Aren’t Doing What They Should Be, and What to do About It – by Robert Mager

The reaction to the behaviors of problem employees is much too often “more training” that doesn’t do anything to improve the situation.  Usually it’s because the behavior is a “won’t do” (a motivation issue) instead of a “can’t do” (a training issue) – and training doesn’t address motivation issues.

It’s important to be clear about the difference because successfully addressing them requires very different approaches.  The challenge is compounded because if often feels easier and more comfortable to throw more training at the situation (even if it won’t work) instead of confronting a motivation issue.

This is must read for managers at all levels.