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Many managers feel uncomfortable when employees break down in tears, whether they’re caused by personal crises or workplace woes. But it’s important to shed that awkwardness and help weeping workers get themselves under control—and find counseling, if needed. 

     Try one of these tactics that lead to dry eyes:

• Gently encourage crying workers to take a short break to compose themselves in private.

• Offer tissues and a glass of water to help them refocus.

• Share tear-ending tricks such as looking up, pressing an index finger between nose and upper lip as if suppressing a sneeze, and simple deep-breathing exercises.

• Discreetly provide contact info for the employee assistance program or other therapeutic resources rather than getting sucked into the primary counseling role.

• Coach workers who go on regular crying jags to consider how not dealing with the underlying issues may negatively impact their careers. But wait for a calm, private moment to have that conversation.

—Adapted from Cox News Service