Toxic Techs: The Hidden Impact on Your Shop

In my travels, I’ve encountered many shops, but one recent experience stands out. Picture a workplace so deeply entrenched in outdated practices, where negativity runs rampant and one individual - often a foreman - spreads that toxicity. They are prioritizing being right, than being the best. This isn’t just confined to technicians; toxic high performers can also be advisors or even managers and owners.

In situations where I’ve advised removing these toxic individuals, I often face resistance. In an industry where skilled technicians are scarce, the fear of letting go of a high producer is palpable. However, I believe it’s crucial to look at the bigger picture. How is this individual affecting the rest of the team? Could other technicians thrive in a more positive environment? Are they truly respected, or is their influence merely tolerated?

I remind my clients that as you strive for growth, not everyone will stay on board. Often, those who resist change are your longest-serving employees or top performers. Yet, in every case I’ve seen, removing a toxic performer leads to a significant boost in departmental performance and culture. Teams begin attracting new talent, overall production improves, and relationships between front and back-of-house staff noticeably enhance.