Three workplace situations that need thoughtful handling before they grow into bigger challenges

Understanding how to approach these common challenges with guidance from an HR consultant in Lewisham

A giant pencil erases a path through a blue maze. Four people walk along the cleared path, suggesting problem-solving and progress.

Most people challenges in the workplace start small. They often come from everyday dynamics, not from anything going wrong. But when they’re left unaddressed, even with the best intentions, they can quietly grow into something more complicated.

The good news is that with a bit of clarity and consistency, these situations can be managed simply, fairly, and in a way that strengthens your team.

As an outsourced HR consultant in Lewisham, these are three situations I see regularly and how I help business owners handle them with confidence.

1. When someone’s performance is starting to slip

You’ve noticed a change. A team member’s work isn’t what it used to be. Deadlines are being missed, or you’re stepping in more often than usual. It’s natural to give them time and space to turn things around and that instinct comes from a good place.

But here’s the risk:

If there’s no clear documentation or structure, it can appear later that everything was fine. If the situation doesn’t improve and you need to take further action, you’ll need to show that support was offered along the way.

What helps:

• Keep short notes about concerns and conversations

• Be clear about what needs to improve and by when

• Schedule regular check-ins to track progress

• Recognise effort and improvement where you see it

This approach supports the person, protects your business and gives you peace of mind that you’ve handled things fairly.

Two women sit at a desk facing the other, having a discussion. One woman gestures while speaking. Neutral office setting.

2. When someone raises a concern about a colleague

A quiet word, a private mention, someone flags a behaviour that’s made them uncomfortable. You have a brief conversation with the person involved, and it seems resolved. But what happens if it comes up again?

The challenge:

If the issue escalates or becomes a formal complaint, you’ll need to show what steps were taken when it was first raised. A quick informal chat might not be enough.

What helps:

• Note the concern, even if it seems minor

• Talk clearly with the person involved and keep a brief record

• Follow up with the team member who raised the concern

This shows your team you take issues seriously and are committed to a respectful, inclusive culture.

3. When someone casually mentions needing different working hours

Requests around flexible working or family responsibilities often come up informally. Someone mentions school pickups, reduced hours, or home working. Even if it’s a casual chat, it may count as a formal request and how you respond matters.

Where issues can arise:

Quick answers or assumptions about what’s possible can lead to misunderstanding. These conversations should be handled with care and clarity.

What helps:

• Be familiar with current flexible working and parental leave guidance

• Treat informal requests with the same care as formal ones

• Take time before responding

• Seek advice if you’re unsure of your obligations

Handled well, these requests can lead to positive, balanced solutions that work for both the business and the individual.

A person in a suit bends over backward on steps using a laptop. The setting is urban with gray steps. The scene is quirky and unusual demonstrating flexible working

Why early, thoughtful action matters

This isn’t about making your workplace feel formal. It’s about knowing when a bit of structure will help you, and your team, feel more supported and confident.

Practical steps that make a difference:

• Clear, kind conversations

• Simple notes that track the support you’ve offered

• Regular follow-up

• Guidance when you need it

As an HR consultant in Lewisham, I help business owners create simple, sustainable processes that make handling these issues feel much easier and less stressful.

Ready to feel more confident managing people challenges?

If you’re dealing with any of these situations, or want to prepare your business to handle them better, practical support can go a long way.

As part of my HR consultancy services in Lewisham, I help business owners navigate workplace challenges with both care and clarity. The goal is always the same: to create workplaces where people feel supported and where business leaders feel confident in how they lead.

Let’s have a conversation about what’s happening in your business and the simple, thoughtful steps that could help you handle these moments well.

Lets Chat

Owl logo with outstretched wings on teal background. Text reads "Minerva HR Consulting."