During our hiring process, it is typical to focus on skills and the requirements of the job. We notice personality and don’t always pay close attention to it. Then we end up with a person who has the right skills but doesn’t quit fit into our culture. 

It is also possible we end up with an employees who turns negative. Usually it occurs as a result of a few incidents. Each one on it’s own doesn’t amount to much however the cumulative effect is another story.  I’ve seen it happen many times and over and over again.

In an effort to turn it around and remedy the situation – coaching,  counseling,  incentives,  apologies, and corrective actions.  For whatever reason,  the negativity is still there.  So, we have a tendency to look the other way because they are good at what they do.

Have you ever found yourself in this situation? Have you ever said, this person is great at the job but has a bad attitude? Have you let this person slide?

I’m sure you have, we all have. The question you need to be asking yourself is, “What is it costing me?”

The answer is more than salary and benefits.  It can and will affect the others working for you,  it can have an impact on your clients (either directly or indirectly) and it can also affect business.  What is the cost to you and the organization?

Negativity is contagious, more so than a positive attitude. A word of caution,  the smaller the company the greater the impact. Has this person infected others? Are you getting complaints from others? Do people not want to work with them? Are clients starting to report issues with service/products?

There will come a time where you have to consider if the skills the person possesses is more or less valuable than the cost/impact they have on the company.

Is it worth it?  If the answer is no,  how will you transition the person or of the organization? Not a question to be taken lightly – there can be ramifications. You need to be aware of any legal consequences and unemployment. Have you also thought of who they know, who they might call, are they in regular contact with clients? What damage can they do once they leave?

It can be done in a way that is legal, fair and respectful. Keeping in mind they are a person too, will go a long way.

Do you find yourself in this situation and not sure where to start? Contact me and we can discuss your particular situation.