Why...
Why do high performers get away with bad behavior?
Last updated April 12, 2026
Quick Answer
Leaders often calculate that results outweigh behavior costs, fearing the performance gap if the person leaves. This calculation ignores hidden costs: other employees disengage watching double standards, talented people refuse to work with toxic colleagues, and culture erodes as behavior becomes 'the way things work here.' The math only works short-term.
Leaders often calculate that results outweigh behavior costs, fearing the performance gap if the person leaves. This calculation ignores hidden costs: other employees disengage watching double standards, talented people refuse to work with toxic colleagues, and culture erodes as behavior becomes 'the way things work here.' The math only works short-term.
