DEAR HARRIETTE: I work with a freelancer who has great ideas but is always late. I cannot stand being late for meetings. I understand it can happen from time to time, but this is a regular occurrence for this woman. I have spoken to her about time management, and she always has an excuse. She has shown up for important client meetings late -- and nonchalant about it, to boot.
I have had to apologize to clients for her attitude and tardiness. Amazingly, when she finally gets in the room, she performs like crazy. Even the clients are enthralled with her. I don’t want to stop working with her, but I do need to figure out a way to inspire her to be on time. Any suggestions? -- On Time, Dallas
DEAR ON TIME: If this woman is valuable enough to you, trick her into being on time. Determine what her normal “late” means, and tell her that your meeting time is that many minutes earlier than planned. So, a 2 p.m. meeting might be scheduled for her at 1:30. If she shows up for the newly appointed time at your 2 p.m. on-time schedule, consider this a victory.
Ultimately, though, you will need to talk to her about reality. After she gets on board with scheduling, tell her how concerned you are that you had to fool her to get it right. Point out that in order to be successful in your business -- or any business -- she MUST be on time. Period.
If you want to add something positive, tell her how much your clients seem to appreciate her participation. You do not want her lateness to be a blemish on an otherwise stellar record.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)