The Monday MGMT Minute: Three Strikes

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As a new manager, my biggest challenge:

Wisely handling an underperforming employee.

I knew that if they improved and did their job effectively, that'd be the best outcome for everyone. And so I waited. I rationalized mistakes, thoughtfully gave feedback, and explored new ways to coach. I gained hope from brief moments of brilliance only to be disappointed when old bad habits returned.

What was holding me back from addressing them head-on?

Confidence.

Here are three tests to raise yours.

1. The Keeper Test. If this employee told me they were leaving to take a role at another company, would I do everything I could to stop them? If my answer is No, that's strike one.

2. The 20/20 Hindsight Test. We make hiring decisions with imperfect information. That information rapidly improved starting Day 1. Based on everything you've now learned, would you hire this person again? No is strike two.

3. The Replacement Test. The question isn't only can they do a good job, but can someone else do it better? Would a typical hire from the outside surpass this person in 6 months or less? If the answer is Yes, that's strike three.

And as they say, this time of year, three strikes and you're out.

Remember: If you tolerate people below the standard for too long, you've set a new one.

Lead on,
Dave

PS - Need help deftly handling an underperforming employee? Join us Thursday, October 24, at 1:00 PM ET for our free 30-minute lightning lesson.