Let's bury phrases like, "Winning isn't most important thing, it's only thing". It's that attitude that caused one parent to shoot another at a hockey rink near here recently. What's more, today's workers don't have to put up with that abuse. They are too smart and have too many options. Let's use effective goal setting, coaching, mentoring, training and motivating. Let's spend time to hire best and then invest in them to make them better. Let's identify those who are not right for job and move them to other positions or 'free them up for other opportunities' by helping them find jobs elsewhere and discharging them with their dignity intact.

This is not just right way to treat people; ironically, it's only way that works. If you have Bobby Knights in your company, pull them aside. Tell them that they are a liability not an asset and that you are sorry you let it go this long. Give them training, tools and an opportunity to change, but make sure they do. Then make sure you lead by example and build an organization where smart people can feel good about trying their best and where achievement is recognized and failure points out areas for improvement.

Let's say good-bye to Bobby Knight and all those like him. The future is too good to be spoiled by their kind.

For a free copy of "10 Keys to Sales Excellence" send an email to article11@waterhousegroup.com and request article 11.

Stephen Waterhouse is Principal and Founder of Waterhouse Group. They specialize in helping companies increase their sales and profits. He can be reached at 1-800-57-LEARN or steve@waterhousegroup.com.

Re-Print Permission This article may be reprinted in it's entirety if following conditions are met:

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Stephen Waterhouse is Principal and Founder of Waterhouse Group. They specialize in helping companies increase their sales and profits. He can be reached at 1-800-57-LEARN or steve@waterhousegroup.com.

Re-Print Permission This article may be reprinted in it's entirety if following conditions are met:

The complete tag with author's name and contact information is included immediately after article. A copy of printed article is mailed to author at 1467 Walnut Creek Drive, Orange Park, FL 32003 within 30 days of publication. The article is presented in a positive light as part of an appropriate business related publication.