Leadership: Boss Held Hostage

Here is a myth that you'll find in almost every large business.

It is: Our "star performer" is too good to lose.

This is nice if that "star" gets along with others. It's a problem if the "star" also happens to be a toxic employee.

Then, management is afraid to confront the person's toxic behavior. For example, I've heard about one toxic "star" who told his boss that the business would go bankrupt if he left. (This by the way is a threat.)

In effect, this boss is being held hostage by the possibility that this "star" might leave and take all current and future success with him.

Let's recognize some realities.

1) There are almost seven billion people on this planet. At least one of them has to be just as smart, clever, and knowledgeable as any "star" in any organization. There might be millions of them. Some of them might even be already in the organization. More so, it's possible that any of them would be better (as in more productive) than the current toxic "star."

2) This toxic "star" costs a business money by depressing the performance of everyone who works nearby. Thus, replacing a toxic "star" with an average performer would result in a net productivity gain that far outweighed losing the one "star."

3) Toxic behavior is always a mask used to hide some deficiency. This means that the "star" is underperforming in other areas that cost the business money. Often this is being neglected because everyone is afraid to talk to the toxic "star" about anything.

So, what do you do?

First, I wrote this blog as a friendly nudge for the toxic "stars" to stop their toxic behavior. Threats and myths never lead to a lasting result. Recognize that during difficult times business leaders begin seeking improvements, and firing the toxic "stars" often ends up at the top of the list. Hard times thus provide an excuse to take care of overdue housecleaning.

Second, if you are a boss, recognize that it's time to have a candid conversation with that bothersome "star." It may be possible to start a program that helps this "star" become are real superstar who adds genuine value to the business. Check with your HR department for guidance on how to proceed.

Key Point: Anyone can be replaced. We need to remember this as we strive to be part of results that last.

Much success,

Steve Kaye

714-528-1300

Author, Speaker, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator

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