In a recent Washington Technology article, author John Hillen raises a critical question for any company – particularly those undergoing or poised for significant growth: ‘Do you know who your most dangerous employee is?’
Hillen contends that your most dangerous employee is not the fraudster, the malcontent, or the disruptor, but rather the competent and experienced old hand who can’t rise to the next level of skill and capability to adapt to a transforming company. What’s more, Hillen notes that those employees typically show no interest in either evolving to suit the company’s objectives or seeking a more suitable role. While Hillen may be engaging in a bit of hyperbole by referring to these employees as “dangerous,” TMG’s Take is that dynamic companies preparing for or experiencing growth should assess their executive leadership at every step along the way – using every opportunity to evaluate candidates who may be a spark for growth, rather than impede it.
While loyalty to long-term, dedicated employees should be commended, leaders are wise to consider whether those employees are adding sufficient value in times of significant growth. Comparing strong external candidates to current leadership not only provides a broad market view of available talent, it can also motivate those incumbents to contribute at a higher level.
TMG’s Take is a regular e-mail advisory produced by The McCormick Group. The company’s Government Contracting group combines the expertise of our knowledgeable consultants to help government contractors fulfill all of their recruiting needs. TMG’s Take covers topics across the spectrum of the government contracting industry, including business development, proposals, contract management, cyber security, compliance, R&D, technology, and finance. Please direct all inquiries to Brian McCormick, Executive Vice President at (703) 841-1700 or bmccormi@tmg-dc.com
