Is 'bad attitude' dismissable...eventually?

[Bobby Knight]

Hi guys. Having a bit of an issue:

We bought the business about 9 years ago. Some staff we got with the business and some we weeded out and some left for greener pastures. My supervisor, however has been working in this shop (tyre industry) for 25 years now, since right after school. He is forever walking around mumbling and complaining about how much work there is.

Now firstly: He cannot be personally de-motivated as he has been offered promotions over the years, which he declined. He is also the highest paid in his division (rightfully so) and is also the only person earning commission on sales.

Secondly: This is not the general consensus as when he is off, the guys actually work better as a team.

Obviously customers also hear him mumbling about, which is bad, plus he generally adds to a negative vibe.

Since he has been working here this long what would be the best course of action:

Warnings for 'bad attitude' seems to be something that could be easily refuted and turned around. do I go the whole three strikes route? Do I add bringing company into disrepute? Or do I go the gentle way: Offering to send him for counselling etc.

Working with him is very tiresome...

[adrianh]

Be careful of constructive dismissal.

[Dave A]

My tactic with these grumblers is to pull them in and say -

What is the problem? (And if we can get specific details, how do we fix it?)

Next I make it plain there can be no negativity in front of clients and minimal negativity in front of staff that fall under him. If there is a problem with working conditions, that must be taken up the chain of command, not down. And make this a directive.

From there I go the three strikes route, with counselling in between.

It's a habit / mindset. Sometimes it can be broken and redirected, and sometimes it can't.

And whatever you do, lead by example.