What should leaders do if a subordinate fails to meet the standard?

When a subordinate fails to meet the standard, it is crucial for leaders to take corrective action that supports the individual’s growth and development within the team or organization. Teaching the subordinate to meet the standard emphasizes a leadership approach that is both constructive and developmental. By providing guidance, resources, and coaching, leaders can help subordinates understand their shortcomings and learn the necessary skills or behaviors required to improve.

This method reinforces accountability while fostering a supportive environment, encouraging employees to take initiative and strive for continuous improvement. It aligns with the principles of effective leadership that focuses on mentoring, teaching, and providing feedback to enhance performance.

In contrast, simply terminating a position can lead to a loss of talent and morale within the team, while transferring a subordinate to a different department without addressing the underlying issue fails to resolve the concern and may simply relocate the problem. Ignoring the issue altogether allows the subordinate to continue underperforming and sets a poor precedent, thereby negatively impacting team dynamics and morale.