No matter how well you optimize or set your staff up for success, sometimes the culture shift won’t take root. For some staff members, the changes are more work and responsibility than they’re accustomed to, which can lead to discomfort and unhappiness.
When this is the case and performance reviews only help temporarily (or not at all), it’s likely time to bite the bullet and let uncooperative staff go — even if it means completely starting over. It can be difficult, but you shouldn’t allow detrimental staff to stand in the way of your business’s new potential. One toxic staff member can sabotage the entire team.
New work cultures often “thin the herd,” and starting over brings just as much opportunity as it does challenges.
The only caveat to this is best represented by the old (and somewhat crude) adage:
“If everywhere you go smells like sh*t, check your shoes.”
If you encounter the same challenges time and time again no matter who you hire, you might need to increase pay or adjust your leadership practices if you expect to retain industry-leading talent.