When you avoid eye contact, nervously shake your body or play with things on the table, you will only emphasize your nervousness. It is better to openly let the employee know you find the situation a little uncomfortable.
The employee should clearly understand what you are saying. Indirect communication and signals only lead to greater confusion.
Give the employee some space to absorb your message. Listen to him and answer possible questions. Expect embarrassment, fear, sadness and also anger. However, you have to remain calm.
Be careful not to end your tricky conversation by an embarrassing silence that does not signal to the employee whether it is over and what will happen next. Clearly state that the discussion is closed and possibly repeat what steps you expect the employee to take.
What was the most embarrassing employee-related situation you had to deal with?
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Article source Inc.com - a U.S. magazine and web focused on starting businesses