I have often heard that longevity in the car business is directly proportional to production divided by toxicity. In layman’s terms this suggests that as long as you produce you will be tolerated. 

What a sad and shortsighted mindset. 

The only world in which this may work is a world where employee engagement and customer retention aren’t important. Otherwise, no amount of individual production is sufficient to outweigh the detrimental impact toxic people have on others. 

Then why are toxic people tolerated?

Aside from the reality that most people [are wusses who] try to avoid conflict, I think the metaphor of an iceberg gives insight. Even toxic people have some redeeming qualities, although usually only short term, which represent the part of the iceberg above the water line. These redeeming qualities are highly desirable (especially when in the form of production) albeit deceptive as managers hope to get them without the downside. Unfortunately, the toxic part, often subtle and unseen [below the water line] causes much greater damage. 

Smart people learn from their own experiences, while wise people learn from the experiences of others. We simply need to trust that coming in contact with an iceberg [toxic people] will never end well and instead we must steer clear. 

Unfortunately, too many managers take a short-term approach in tolerating toxic producers—believing they can play with fire without getting burned—largely due to the way their own pay plans are structured. The allure of toxic producers is often too strong, just like the allure of unearned windfall gains. 

That is why leaders define [and maintain] guiding principles for their organizations—principles that are not to be compromised—to help managers make better choices with day-to-day behaviors that are toxic. Further, great leaders are courageous in not hiring potentially toxic people and in dealing with toxic habits when observed. 

The next time you consider tolerating a toxic person ask yourself how long you would tolerate a diffuser in the middle of the room filled with poison. Rather, eliminate the poisons and fill your diffusers with positivity and watch your team flourish.

Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.