If you’re a business owner or team leader, you’ve probably faced the challenge of dealing with difficult or even toxic employees. It’s not easy, but understanding the difference between the two—and knowing how to handle them—can make a world of difference for your team’s success.
In this blog post, I want to touch on some of the key things to consider when addressing these types of employees. However, there’s so much more to unpack in this topic, and I highly recommend watching my video for a deeper dive into practical strategies.
Spotting the Difference
First, it’s important to note that difficult employees and toxic employees are not the same. One requires guidance, while the other can seriously harm your company’s culture. In the video, we break down exactly what sets them apart and why it matters for your leadership approach.
Coaching the Difficult Employee
Difficult employees often struggle with processes, communication, or following rules. But here’s the thing—they’re not bad employees. With the right coaching, they can align with your team’s goals. I talk more about how to effectively coach these employees in the video, where we explore the importance of explaining the “why” behind your rules and processes. It’s all about building understanding to drive better performance.
Toxic Employees: When Enough is Enough
On the flip side, toxic employees are a different story. These are the ones who bring down morale, spread negativity, or cause division. While coaching may help with difficult employees, toxic ones require a completely different approach. In the video, I offer specific advice on how to address toxic behaviors and the tough, but necessary, decisions you might have to make.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with difficult and toxic employees is a key part of leadership, and it’s something you’ll inevitably face as your team grows. If you’re looking for actionable steps on how to manage these situations—and how to ensure your team stays strong—
And remember, you got this.
-Sean Si