151 Quick Ideas to Deal With Difficult People apprised of any problems with my teenagers' work. I also keep in touch Take your managers to throughout the school year. coffee or lunch from time I make the effort because to time. Encourage them to I don't want to be sur- seek your advice. prised by any problems at the end of the school year, when students have fewer options for turning things around. As a manager, major problems, especially personnel prob- lems, shouldn't catch you by surprise. An open revolt of the staff or the resignation of a star player shouldn't be the first time you hear about an ongoing problem on your staff. Make it clear to your managers that, while you have faith in their abilities to handle their subordinates' problems, you want to be informed about the egregious ones. So, occasionally, ask your managers if they are facing any difficult personnel issues Assignment