DiscoverThe Introvert LeaderHow to Turn Around a Low Performer
How to Turn Around a Low Performer

How to Turn Around a Low Performer

Update: 2025-10-22
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Description

You inherit a team. One person is dragging everyone down. Now what?

In this episode, I break down how to turn around a low-performing employee without killing your team’s culture or your own credibility. I’ll share a personal story of a turnaround attempt that didn’t work, the five biggest mistakes leaders make, how to uncover the real reason behind low performance, and what to do when it's already too late.


Timestamps

00:34 – Story: Why coaching, feedback, and accountability didn’t work and what I learned from failing to turn someone around.

03:04 – 5 Mistakes Leaders Make With Low Performers: From waiting too long to pushing too hard. Here are the common traps leaders fall into when trying to fix performance.

05:52 – How to Find the Real Problem: Is it a skill issue? Or a will issue? Learn how to diagnose the root cause before creating your plan. 

9:33 – The Turnaround Strategy: How to build a plan that balances high standards with human empathy and actually works.

15:41 – When It’s Too Late: Three warning signs that it's time to move on, even if you've tried everything.

17:49 – Challenge For Listeners: An action step to help you stop avoiding a tough conversation and start leading with clarity.



Career & Leadership Coaching

  • Want a better career? Clients who work with us earn 57% more and get promoted 3x faster on average: Book your free career clarity call here.



Free Resources

  • The Brag Sheet (free Career Achievement Tracker): Here


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How to Turn Around a Low Performer

How to Turn Around a Low Performer

Austin Hopkins