Is He Shy or Just a Snob?
Our new temp keeps to himself and doesn't talk much and a lot of people think he's a snob, and they want someone different to be brought in. He's a great worker and seems like a decent guy so I'm reluctant to let him go. How can I get him to try to open up more AND get my regular team members to be a little more tolerant?
Your problem might be with your current staff. They may feel threatened by his efficiency. Seek out the office ringleader to see if it is really something to complain about and address that pronto. Speak to the temp and find out if he/she likes working at your firm and try to feel out the situation.
I think a bit of communication and coaching would be of use here.
Ask the temp staff some of the following questions:
- What is the reason behind him keeping to himself?
- Is he interested in improving relations with other staff?
- What can he do to improve relations/interactions?
- What can other colleagues do to help him?
Ask the other staff some of the following questions:
- Ideally, how would they want their relationship with the temp to be?
- What can they do from their side to reach closer to the ideal?