CEO Corner: A Ring Leader In Your Team

Written by Soong Chong, Director

Are you a manager of a team. You have gut feeling there is something not right. But you can't quite put your finger on it. When you communicate with your team and ask if everything is ok. They don't really have any negative things to say. You have good retention strategies consisting of:

• salary packaging at market or above market
• performance incentives
• development opportunities
• recognition programs
• challenging work
• flexibility
• "open door" communication policy

What could be the problem? Chances are that you have a influential ring leader in your team.

The ring leader, is a very dangerous employee. This person is an excellent communicator, has great credentials and charisma. And most likely, complains the least.

What is occurring is that the ring leader is complaining to other employees and manipulating them into becoming grumbling employees. Meanwhile, the ring leader hides in the background. He or she is undermining your authority and basically telling everyone how bad it is at your workplace. The result is that you will have good employees leave and a seemingly loyal employee (the ring leader) still hanging around.

Actions to take:
-Identify the ring leader quickly. Go with your gut instinct. You already know who this person is.
-Do some background checks.
This will include:
1. Did the ring leader pass your rigorous hiring process?
2. Double check their references
-You will basically have to performance manage them out. So ensure:
- that have proper KPIs in place
- that HR is involved and follow proper performance management procedures
- that you make copious amount of notes of every conversation
 

Once the ring leader is gone, there will be energy shift in your workplace. You will have a more productive and pleasant work environment.