A question we often ask of organisations is, “Who’s on the boat?” In other words, “If we started again today, who would not be on the team?”
Almost always, there is a list!
It necessitates the follow-up query: “So why are they still here?”
More often than not, it is because of conflict avoidance. Managing poor performers seems too onerous – so we live with the problem.
This has numerous detrimental effects on the team.
» Fairness is questioned.
» Leadership is challenged.
» Others tend to be less engaged.
» Some may copy those destructive behaviours.
» Team morale suffers.
» There is the opportunity cost of having someone much better instead.
» Good people quit.
We have long maintained that success in teams (and with individuals) depends on three key factors:
The decisions we make;
The peers we spend time with; and
The habits we form.
Undesirable employees affect at least two of these.
A useful exercise for any manager is to revisit this question at least once every quarter (13 weeks).
It insures against complacency.
It ensures continual improvement.
Consider each person against the following critical criteria:
PURPOSE – Do they prioritise the team’s needs over their own? Are they contributing to the organisation’s mission, objectives and outcomes? Do their personal goals and aspirations align with those of the team? Are they rowing in the same direction as the team?
PEOPLE (Character & Culture) – Does the person’s character meet the team’s expectations? Do their behaviours enhance or dilute team values? Ignoring or accepting the bad behaviour of star performers is a common but dangerous mistake. Are they rowing with the team’s cadence and rhythm?
PERFORMANCE – Does the person’s competency fit the role? What is their level of effort…hard work? Are they maximising their talents and strengths? Are they getting better each day (learning, growing and improving)? Are they doing their fair share of rowing?
A players like to be on a team with other A players.
Tolerating B or even C players affects team performance initially, and eventually, you’ll end up with a B or C team.
