In a discussion with another leader, I was recently reminded of an essential rule of leadership - Good leaders don’t treat everyone the same. 

It’s easy to default to a homogenous leadership approach, but in all honesty it isn’t effective.  High achievers need to be treated like they have earned trust and respect while those that are doing just enough need to be acknowledged for meeting the standard. Neither of these groups should be treated like a problem child. 

The problem child is the employee who is either performing below expectations or who has challenges with interpersonal relations.  Unfortunately, the employees that cause us the most grief are the ones that drain the most time and attention from us.  As a result, we don’t always turn off those behaviors when dealing with people that have already proven themselves.  Sadly, when it is time to work with the team members that are doing things right, we are depleted and worn down from struggling in other areas. 

So, what’s a leader to do? 

Leaders must remember to handle team members the way that we want teachers to handle children.  Treat them as individuals.  Learn their strengths, struggles, likes, dislikes, interests and shortcomings.  Consider their contributions and have an understanding of who they are and treat them accordingly.  Most importantly acknowledge their value and recognize their worth. Adjust your approach to best fit your audience and you will yield greater results.

Don’t treat your all-stars like a rookie. 

In order to use a different approach, leaders must have the resources to navigate changing conditions, people, and problems.  One way to improve your skills (or your team’s skills) is to invest in the Leadership Toolkit series here.