Dealing With Slackers

Dealing With Slackers   It may seem counterintuitive, but during though economic times some workers are more inclined to slack off, said Eilene Zimmerman in the New York Times. "People are feeling uncertain and insecure, so they spend more time talking about problems then getting work done," says organizational; psychologist Paul Damiano. Still, of a co-worker's lack of motivation is affecting your own job, there may come a point when you need to say something. "don't stew about the problem and vent to others." your own productivity will only suffer.   Start by speaking with your colleague in a private setting, and use concrete examples to explain what you are seeing and it's impact on you," said Amy Gallo in Business Week. Ask questions before pointing fingers. If your colleague's shortcomings are to a short-term problem, such as a personal issue, "offer to help." Avoid taking the issue to your colleague's manager, lest you be labeled as someone who's not a team player. Just make sure that you're communicating clearly with higher-ups about your own work, and  don't be afraid to claim "credit where credit is due."