# Managing High-Maintenance Employees Effectively Develop a productive management strategy without exhausting your patience. - **Source:** [Inc.com](https://brifing.si/source/07cb1004-a796-47d7-9801-fc5c7388471d) - **Published:** 2026-07-15 - **Topic:** [Leadership](https://brifing.si/c/leadership) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/39b751ce-a635-432d-94cd-01e400ca8524 ## Understanding the Root Cause Employees who constantly seek attention often struggle with confidence gaps or role ambiguity. Identifying the underlying reason is the first step toward sustainable solutions. While empathy is crucial, maintaining boundaries is equally important. ## Setting Clear Expectations Define project priorities and decision-making authority clearly to foster self-sufficiency. Phrases like 'I trust your judgment on this' can help break dependency cycles while empowering the employee. ## Structured Feedback Systems Replace daily check-ins with scheduled weekly meetings. Designate specific channels for urgent matters while encouraging batch processing of routine questions. This improves time management and builds confidence. ## Providing Enabling Resources Create knowledge bases or training modules for frequently asked questions. Self-service tools reduce managerial dependency while institutionalizing knowledge sharing across the organization. ## Reinforcing Positive Behavior Consistently acknowledge independent problem-solving. Specific praise like 'You handled that issue perfectly on your own' reinforces desired behaviors through intrinsic motivation. ## Professional Development Opportunities Invest in mentorship programs or leadership training to support long-term growth. Employees who receive development opportunities often become more autonomous. Remember: Needy employees frequently have high potential. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.inc.com/alison-green/how-can-i-be-more-patient-with-a-needy-frustrating-employee/91358862 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._