A zero-tolerance approach to talented jerks in the workplace is risky
Even if banning them sounds attractive
One personality type occupies more attention in the workplace than any other. The “talented jerk”, whose alter-egos include such lovable characters as the “toxic rock star” and the “destructive hero”, is a staple of management literature. These are the people who smash both targets and team cohesion, who get stuff done and get away with behaving badly as a result.
This article appeared in the Business section of the print edition under the headline “Jerk checking”
Business April 1st 2023
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