Reacting for People Management

I was told the other day that I needed to sort out some people issues straight away, for fear that the person might make a rash decision and leave.  That person was quite important to us.  It was suggested that I should bring forward a planned pay increment as that person had made a statement about her pay being not enough for the work she was doing.

So I went in and gave some encouragement.  I decided not to talk about any increment for that person.  I didn't really talk through any issues to be honest.

What I realised after soothing that person was the following:
1. I should be continually encouraging my staff.  Doesn't matter when or where, I should be doing it.  It does help calm a situation and reinforces the "we are here to help each other" mentality.  A lot of times, it is when people feel that they are doing it all themselves is when they get frustrated.
2. I should not act on any decision like pay increases based on another person's view to act.  I need to be willing to wait until the request is given to me, or when I decide it is the right time.  Trust my instinct.
3. Everyone has good and bad days.  We shouldn't blow things out of proportion and react prematurely.  And overall, as long as we are setting a good environment, things will be ok.  Look at the longer term.

I think I am calm in most situations, but I need to learn to be calmer when it comes to dealing with people.  And assume good people are emotionally mature and can take care of themselves.  Sometimes just a good word will be all that is required.