How to Deal With Strong-Headed Employees

by Anna Assad
Let a strong-headed person speak his mind, but don't let him take over meetings.


Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

Dealing with strong-headed employees can end in disaster, but you can have a positive outcome if you control your emotions and take some preventive measures. Stubborn employee behavior takes a toll on coworkers and can create a hostile workplace. A strong-headed employee genuinely believes his ideas or methods are the best route for the business, so you must take his opinion into consideration when his stubbornness is creating a problem at work.


Keep emotions in check. Remind yourself you only need the employee's professional skills so you don't respond to his strong-headed behavior in an emotional way. For example, if he insists there is only one way to complete a project, do not yell at him or behave rudely if he is wrong. Negative behavior on your part will make reaching a compromise more difficult.


Write down tasks you need completed in specific words. Deliver the instructions before meeting with the employee to discuss the project. Giving the employee instructions in writing before speaking to him limits prolonged contact and sets clear expectations for both sides.


Listen to the employee's ideas objectively. He may insist there is only one "right" way to do something, and while that may not be true, he might have valid points in his argument. Go over his points and calmly explain what you agree with and what you don't. Give solid reasons for your position so he does not feel ignored.


Talk to stubborn employees in private and in person if a problem arises. Do not use telephone or email, as both are impersonal and less private, and he may misunderstand.


State points once. Repeating yourself is likely to make you emotional, and a strong-willed employee is unlikely to listen no matter how many times you say the same thing.


  • Consider disciplinary action against the employee if his behavior is extremely disruptive or insolent to management staff.

About the Author


Photo Credits

  • Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
bibliography-icon icon for annotation tool Cite this Article