Employees who make too many mistakes can frustrate coworkers, slow down the workplace and sometimes compromise the safety and security of a company. As a manager, your first impulse might be to correct the worker and warn her not to make the same mistake again. However, some mistakes can be learning experiences, and an employee who views her errors in such a manner is unlikely to make the same mistake twice. Emphasize learning rather than warnings, and you’re likely to see your employees grow into their roles.
Step 1Provide training. In her book, “Malled: My Unintentional Career in Retail,” author Caitlin Kelly points out how many companies strive to save money by cutting back on employee training. This strategy can backfire, however, as employees who make continual mistakes can cost the company money.
Step 2Allow employees to make some mistakes without consequences, especially when they are new to a position. Mistakes are a natural part of learning, and the employee who makes mistakes today might turn out to be the most expert person on your team next year.
Step 3Talk to employees individually about the mistakes that they are making. Familiarize them with the proper procedures so that they won’t make as many mistakes. Drawing an employee’s attention to a better way to do things is often all it takes to help him do his job better.
Step 4Place mistake-prone employees with a mentor. Employees can observe or work with the mentor to see how to better perform the work. Mentoring not only helps employees to retain knowledge, but may help your company to retain workers.
Step 5Consider placing an employee in a less challenging position if you have tried the above options without success