People

I'm not good at confrontation. But I find myself having to learn to be good at it, since I am an employer now.

I had to have a little heart to heart chat with the help (said intentionally like that, and I don't mean anything by it) after a little woopsie.

As gentle and careful as I was, it appeared as though I was telling a little boy that he had to give his puppy away. I watched the expression on his face turn from resolved to defend himself, to disbelief, to being crushed. He walked away defeated.

I was sorry, but I decided to let that emotion just evaporate, and get on with the business of business.

Today, I got a chance to give and gain "closure" on the situation. I followed up with the offended customer, and then summed up the event with the employee. He understood both my concern for him, and my desire to be a professional service provider in the community. I saw that, when it all came together, he found my position to be valid.

I told him that I do not mind if this particular customer takes her business elsewhere, but the actions that led up to her complaint need to not happen again. It was very satisfying to see the incident closed with a positive outcome, and the bounce in his step restored.

I'm not sure I'd sign on for supervisor again, but I do believe I can get the hang of it.

Network marketing is ever so much easier! :-)