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Every person experiences a difficult work situation at least once. A rough project, a harsh boss, an unfriendly work environment or even an unpleasant physical space can threaten productivity, working relationships, and the ability to succeed. We might ignore the situation, become combative, flee, or even feel that it is our fault. This session will cover tactics for surviving – and perhaps thriving in – a challenging situation. There will be time for questions so that participants can get advice about situations they have seen or encountered.”
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Make the Most of a Difficult Situation:
Solutions to Get You Through
Jill Hurst-Wahl@jill_hw
July 16, 2012
Syracuse University School of Information StudiesAssociate Professor of PracticeDirector, Library & Information Science Program
Consultant, Speaker, AuthorThe Information and Knowledge Professional’s Career Handbook: Define and Create Your Success with Ulla de Stricker
Has had several careers/jobs, each with their own set of diffi cult situations.
WHO IS JILL?
NO ONE IS IMMUNE FROM DIFFICULT SITUATIONS
A situation:that you do not likethat you do not know how to handlewhere you don’t think you have any options
that is a surpriseFor example:
New technology implementationsOrganizational downsizingInterpersonal conflicts
WHAT IS A DIFFICULT SITUATION?
Learn about the situation, what has created it and possible solutions.Don’t make assumptions.
Assess the external environment and its impact on the situation and/or possible solutions.
Brainstorm.Pull together as a team.Build support / Find a mentor.
TIPS FOR HANDLING A DIFFICULT SITUATION (1/2)
Learn how to listen to what is said and not said.
Talk one-on-one with the person causing you angst.
If is harassment, involve human resources.
If you need to leave the environment, have a strategy.
Remember the positives.Trust your gut.
TIPS FOR HANDLING A DIFFICULT SITUATION (2/2)
The organization has decided to reorganize. The department that you manage is now reporting to someone who doesn’t value what you do?
How would you handle this?
DIFFICULT SITUATION #1
Your boss generates many new ideas for your department and expects you to act on them all. Because of staffi ng and current priorities, this is causing conflicts.
How would you handle this?
DIFFICULT SITUATION #2
Your organization has decided to move from its current service model to one that will require staff to be on-call 24x7. This is raising many questions and everyone’s blood pressure.
How would you handle this?
DIFFICULT SITUATION #3
You’re getting a promotion, but the timing isn’t clear. You’re getting two different offi cial stories and neither makes sense.
How would you handle this?
DIFFICULT SITUATION #4
YOUR SITUATIONS?
