“I don’t know why management keeps Harvey around.”

“You cannot depend on him.  He produces little and makes too many mistakes.”

“He misses a lot of work too which makes our jobs harder.”

 What impact do low performers have in the workplace?  A survey by Eagle Hill Consulting reported that 68% of respondents said low performers lowered morale and 44% said they created more work for others.  Top performers rarely reduce their efforts when working with a low performer, but they are more likely to quit.

Managers average between one and three days a week working with low performers.  And they seldom see improvement.   Effective managers spend less than 10% of their time with low performers.  Rather, productive leaders spend 50% of their time with high performers–learning from them, seeking ways to help, and showing sincere appreciation.   

How do you know when to begin the termination process?  Netflix asks two questions:  (1) If the employee got another job offer, would you fight to keep the person?  (2) Knowing what you know now, would you hire the employee again?

If the answer to either question is “No,” it is better for all to part ways.