Q: As a supervisor, I want my employees to feel comfortable bringing me questions, concerns and ideas. However, I also want them to understand that my open door policy is not an invitation to constantly gossip or complain. What’s the best way to accomplish this?

A: First, you must help your staff recognize the difference between constructive work discussions and unproductive gripe sessions. Here are some signs that they’re on the right track: 1) They are discussing a specific business issue; 2) They are focused on solutions, not complaints; and 3) They are planning for the future, not arguing about the past.

Should they begin whining, squabbling or sniping at each other, just cut the conversation short and remind them of the above guidelines. Hopefully, after a little coaching, they will learn to refocus without your help.

-- Tribune News Service