Every business owner knows that building a business starts with wearing all the hats — chief cook, bottlewasher, and everything in between. In those early days, our “team” often consisted of family members, friends, and whoever was willing to roll up their sleeves for a modest reward.
But as the business grew, the real test began: do we have the right people in the right roles? Some employees lift the business higher, while others quietly drain energy, resources, and momentum. The difference between the two is often the fine line between a thriving business and one constantly in survival mode.
That’s why we must ask: Are our employees the Achilles heel holding us back, or the differentiators setting us apart?
Employees = Achilles Heel?
1. Consistently Poor Performance
Not able to fulfil the core responsibilities of their role in which they were appointed
Frequently misses deadlines, delivers substandard work, or needs constant supervision
The gap between expectations and delivery doesn’t close despite coaching or training
2. Negative Attitude and Toxic Influence
Do not act in alignment with the business values
Complains often, resists change and undermines team morale
Spreads negativity, gossip, or conflict that affects workplace culture
3. Lack of Accountability
Avoids responsibility, shifts blame or makes excuses instead of finding solutions
Shows little ownership of mistakes, which leads to repeated challenges
4. Low Engagement and Commitment
Do not support the business strategy
Displays minimal effort or enthusiasm for the role they fulfil
5. High Cost with Little Return
Draws a salary that far outweighs their contribution to revenue, productivity, or customer satisfaction expected from them
Requires excessive management time or resources to stay on track
Employees = Differentiator?
1. They Deliver Exceptional Results Consistently
Not only meet but exceed performance expectations
Their work raises the overall standard for the team and business
2. They Bring Unique Skills or Insights
Possess expertise, creativity, or problem-solving abilities that few others have
Find innovative solutions that create measurable business value
Have a mindset of continuous learning
3. They Strengthen Customer and Stakeholder Relationships
Represent the business with professionalism and care, building loyalty
Clients, suppliers, or partners ask for them by name because they trust them
4. They Elevate Team Culture and Performance
Is a team player
Encourage collaboration, mentor others, and spread positivity
Their presence and attitude improve team morale, cohesion, and productivity
5. They Drive Growth Beyond Their Role
Take initiative, identify opportunities, and think beyond their job description
Contribute ideas or actions that open new markets, improve processes, or boost profitability
In Closing
In the end, employees will either protect and multiply the business you are building, or they will weaken its foundations. The signs are there if we look closely.
Use these points as a mirror:
Where do you see liabilities that need proactive intervention?
Where do you see differentiators who deserve recognition, growth, and investment?
The future of your business rests not only on your vision and strategy, but also on the people who carry it out daily. Choose carefully, invest wisely, and remember — it’s your people who ultimately determine whether your business merely survives or truly thrives.
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Business advisory support / business growth support / business planning
Business finance
Banking facility audit
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Buying or selling of a business / business valuation
Speak to your SFP Financial Advisor who will introduce you to the designated SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT on the SFP ENTERPRISE panel who would be able to address your specific business need or requirement.
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