For the most part, you can’t tolerate staffers blowing a gasket and disrupting the workplace.
On the other hand: An employee who loses his cool sometimes at least shows he or she has passion for the job!
That’s better than an employee who doesn’t disagree with anyone or about anything – and doesn’t share opinions when you need them.
Condemn the behavior only
The key: Acknowledge the hothead’s feelings without making them feel justified in acting like that.
Here’s a script that you can adapt to start off a cool-down chat:
“I understand you’re angry because (fill in the blank). I might feel the same way in that situation.
“That does not give you or anyone else an excuse to yell and act unprofessionally because of it.
“I know that you can handle frustrating situations better and take care of the problem too.”
Keep in mind that a professional employee who loses his cool will respond to the right message. Often all it takes is one reprimand to prevent a good performer from yelling at co-workers again.