Navigating Professional Relationships: Dealing with Unprofessional Junior Colleagues

Dealing with junior colleagues who are not only unprofessional but also operate outside of our direct control can be challenging. However, effective management and leadership can transform such situations. By balancing friendliness and professionalism, leaders can foster a conducive work environment where all team members thrive.

Understanding the Role of a Leader

Leaders are often tasked with playing two pivotal roles: a friendly role and a specific role. The friendly role is crucial in making junior colleagues feel valued and engaged. In democratically led teams, junior colleagues are encouraged to express their thoughts and feel part of the team. Discussing issues and encouraging them to find solutions can build a sense of attachment and mutual respect.

For instance, during my field training at ONGCI, I recall the advice from the personnel officer about the importance of showing kindness and understanding. By taking steps to build rapport, even the most senior leaders can inspire their juniors to take two steps forward. This approach builds a foundation of trust and respect.

Building Rapport and Encouragement

During and after office hours, leaders should make a conscious effort to build relationships. It's essential to transcend ego and be open to offering guidance and support. Small gestures can go a long way in making junior colleagues feel valued.

Leadership isn't just about setting goals and achieving them; it's about inspiring those around you. Taking the first step in achieving objectives can motivate juniors to be more proactive. A good leader should take the initiative, involve subordinates by encouraging them, and gradually step back to focus on supervision. This balance helps junior colleagues feel empowered rather than stifled.

Setting Boundaries and Promoting Professionalism

While fostering a friendly and supportive environment, leaders must also ensure that team members adhere to the rules and regulations of the organization. It's important to clearly communicate expectations and convey the importance of professional behavior. One organization where I worked, a programme manager would sometimes drop us on the way to work. This simple act of kindness made me more motivated and grateful to my responsibilities.

As a leader, it's crucial to maintain a balance between being a role model and avoiding favoritism or misuse of power. Encourage and assist junior colleagues in performing their tasks, and refrain from acting as a strict headmaster. Leaders should provide constructive feedback and support, promoting a healthy work environment.

Patience and Development

Patience is key in managing junior colleagues. Providing comprehensive training and development opportunities can have a profound impact. Over time, these efforts can yield significant results. For instance, many of the people I have worked with under my control are now highly placed in their careers. They gratefully acknowledge the role I played in their success, and their appreciation continues to inspire me.

Commitment to their professional growth not only benefits the team but also reinforces the value of investing in junior colleagues. By fostering a supportive and professional environment, leaders can encourage junior colleagues to embrace their roles and contribute positively to the organization.

Ultimately, effective leadership is about creating a space where all team members can thrive, both personally and professionally. By balancing friendliness and professionalism, leaders can guide junior colleagues to become valuable contributors, fostering a collaborative and successful work culture.