7 Points for Correctly Reprimanding Subordinates Without Committing Power Harassment

Power harassment, sexual harassment, maternity harassment, and moral harassment. We live in an era where even a moment of carelessness in the workplace can lead to various forms of harassment. Nevertheless, it is still the role of a supervisor to guide and develop subordinates. How should one communicate with subordinates when it is necessary to reprimand them, while ensuring it is not perceived as harassment? In this article, we will introduce seven points on how to reprimand subordinates and how to communicate with them effectively. Please use this as a reference.

The Relationship Between Modern Supervisors and Subordinates

Managers often feel that their subordinates are "fragile" or "get discouraged easily when given a little feedback." Additionally, with the Power Harassment Prevention Act coming into effect on June 1, 2020, there are concerns about being accused of power harassment. Even if advice or criticism is given for the sake of the other person or to help them grow, if the recipient perceives it as power harassment, it becomes power harassment. Developing subordinates is a supervisor's duty, but from now on, power harassment prevention measures are also a crucial element. First, let's learn how to communicate in a way that ensures your own actions do not constitute power harassment.

Use the "Karitekita Neko" (Borrowed Cat) Method When Reprimanding Subordinates

Keep these seven points in mind when communicating with subordinates.

“Ka”... Do not get emotional
Emotional communication, regardless of the generation, does not lead to good results.

“Ri”... Explain the reason
If the person being reprimanded understands why they are being reprimanded, they are more likely to accept it.

“Te”... Be quick and concise
The term "time performance" is popular, and being reprimanded for a long time can lead to dissatisfaction.

“Ki”... Do not touch on character (personality or individuality)
From the subordinate's perspective, they may wonder why the supervisor needs to go that far.

“Ta”... Do not compare with others
Generally, people cannot accept being reprimanded when compared to others.

“Ne”... Do not hold a grudge
Holding a grudge and bringing up the same thing repeatedly can be perceived as power harassment.

“Ko”... Communicate individually
Reprimanding someone in front of others is counterproductive.

The "Karitekita Neko" (Borrowed Cat) mnemonic is easy to remember, isn't it?
When you reprimand a subordinate, you often do so because you have their best interests at heart. It would be a shame if your intentions were misinterpreted or, worse, taken as harassment. To ensure you can convey what you need to without it being perceived as malice, please try practicing these seven points of "Karitekita Neko."

(Reference: Nikkei Gooday, Professor Taku Watanabe, Teikyo Heisei University, Faculty of Contemporary Life)