Ask questions first

Instead of telling people what to do, try this. Get them to tell you, in tiieir own words, what they ought to be doing in order to be safe. You can do this by asking questions witii a sincere and caring demeanor. Avoid at all costs a sarcastic or demeaning tone, but, first, point out certain safe behaviors you noticed—it is important to emphasize positives. 

Then move on to the seemingly at-risk behavior by asking, Is there a safer way to perform that task Of course, you hope for more than a yes or no response to a question like this. However, if that is all you get, you need to be more precise in follow-up questioning. You might, for example, point out a particular work routine that seems risky and ask whether there is a safer way. 

I recommend approaching a corrective feedback conversation as if you do not know the safest cooperating procedures, even though you think you do. You might, in fact, find 

By asking questions, you are always going to learn something. If nothing else you will hear the rationale behind taking a risk over choosing the safer alternative. You might uncover a barrier to safety that you can help the person overcome. A conversation that entertains ways to remove obstacles that hinder safe behavior is especially valuable if it translates possibilities into feasible and relevant action plans. 

You will know your nondirective approach to correction worked if your colleague owns up to his or her mistake even under a cloud of excuses. Remember, it is only natural to offer a rationale for taking a risk. It is a way of protecting self-esteem. Let it pass, and remind yourself that when someone admits a mistake before you point it out, there is a greater chance for both acceptance of responsibility and behavior to change. 

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Joshua... I don t want you to be vulnerable, that s all. There will be a lot of people looking for Mzu, and none of them are the type to ask questions first."... 

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