When a Good Employee Isn't the Right Choice

When a Good Employee Isn't the Right Choice

The MLB playoffs start today, and some very good players won't be on the postseason roster.

Case in point: In 2022, the Yankees faced that decision with Aroldis Chapman.

• Chapman had been an All-Star and the team's closer. But, by October, his role had diminished.

When told he wasn't guaranteed a postseason roster spot, he skipped a mandatory workout; the Yankees left him off the roster.

• It was a tough personnel decision, and Chapman clearly didn't agree with it.

Why it matters: Decisions like this one are exactly the same type of challenge that leaders face every day at work.

• Who gets the promotion or high-profile project? Who gets moved to a different role or doesn't make the team?

The toughest personnel decisions aren't always about choosing between a great employee and a poor one.

• Sometimes you're choosing between good people, knowing someone will be disappointed.

3 ways to make the call:

1. Focus on what you need NOW. Past performance matters. But it shouldn't automatically determine future opportunities.

• Define what the team needs now, Identify the skills required, and make the decision based on what's ahead, not just what's behind you.

2. Don't let the expected reaction make the decision for you. Nobody wants to disappoint someone they respect. However, don't avoid the decision because the conversation will be uncomfortable.

• Don't choose the option that simply creates the least conflict. Someone's potential reaction shouldn't determine your decision.

3. Remember there's a person on the other side. Making the decision is only half the job. Being respectful toward the impacted person and communicating directly with them is part of your role.

• Explain your reasoning, acknowledge the person's contributions, and give them a chance to react and ask questions.

They may not agree with you, but they should understand how and why you made the decision.

The bottom line

Setting a playoff roster means telling talented players they won't be part of what's next.

• Leadership sometimes requires the same thing.

Make the decision that's right for the team now and going forward. Then handle the person affected by it with the respect they deserve.

Play ball!