How to Manage Negative A-Players Without Increasing Team Attrition?

Hi, I have two users in my team, and they are considered A players. However, their behavior is not good with the team, as they always try to spread negativity on the floor. I have already discussed with them and suggested that they should not engage in these behaviors. In my opinion, the organization is doing its best for them, but due to their behavior, they have remained Analysts for the past 4 years. I have been very flexible with them; however, it seems they are taking advantage of it now.

Handling Difficult Team Members While Considering Attrition

Please suggest how I should handle these users while keeping attrition in mind.

Thanks,
Ajay Kumar

You have to understand that they are the rotten apples in your basket. Ten fresh fruits can't make rotten ones fresh; however, these rotten apples can spoil your other fruits as well. They must be thinking that since they are performers, the company will neither ask them to leave nor take any action against them.

You have already tried your best (I am assuming). Now issue them a warning letter and give them an ultimatum. Monitor them closely, and if there is no change, ask them to leave immediately. If you think about attrition, if they spread negativity on the floor and because of them more people leave, it will be difficult for you. It's better to throw the rotten apples from the basket and get fresh ones.

You may take some time to hire people, but it is better to save your company culture and other staff than to keep such employees. This action will send a clear message to the other staff as well.

Hope it helps!

Addressing Team Member Behavior Issues

The complete picture is not visible from your statement. Let's see how to address this.

Agreeing with the fact that spreading negativity on the floor cannot be appreciated. At the same time, we need to understand why only two of your team members act this way. Is there any pay parity? Do they require behavior modification? What is the role of the rest of the team members in this behavior?

Speak to the individual and try to understand the real concern. For this, it would be better to get a professional associate/counselor. Once this exercise is done, you can motivate them to be better contributors. If the results are not as expected, plan for a replacement.

In a team, all members must take responsibility on their shoulders. The team leader will guide them to fulfill the task.

Handling Negative Team Members

In case any negative people are causing hurdles in one way or another within the team, they should be weeded out, and new individuals should be placed in their positions. These new members should be given training by assigning them to less critical roles. Otherwise, it will be a problem for the leader as well as indirectly for the company, and the company's discipline will be compromised.