How to Handle Employees Undermining Your Authority

Handling a problematic employee who consistently undermines their manager and disrupts team dynamics can be one of the most challenging tasks a leader faces. Such behavior affects morale, can undermine productivity, and can create a toxic environment. Here’s a structured approach for addressing this issue effectively, maintaining team integrity, and safeguarding workplace culture.

1. Diagnose the Root Cause of the Behavior

It’s important first to understand the “why” behind the undermining actions. Common motivations can include:

• Lack of alignment with company values or culture.
• Unaddressed grievances or feelings of being undervalued.
• Personality clashes or communication style differences.
• Misalignment with the role causes frustration and negative behaviors.

Setting up a private meeting with the employee for a candid discussion is a good first step. Approach the conversation with an open mind, focusing on specific examples of the behavior and explaining how it impacts the team and their work.

2. Set Clear Expectations and Document Behavior