This topic keeps coming up in my conversations with professionals.  I think that today, we are struggling as small business owners trying to figure out the balance between employee satisfaction and enforcing a standard.  And unfortunately, I think too often, leaders are shying away from being tough on their employees fearing the employee will quit.

Here’s the thing, you can be tough and have high expectations and standards, without being an a%# hole.  In fact, not being tough is the equivalent of not caring about your team member.  If you avoid the tough conversations you are not only hurting your business, but you are hurting that employee too.

If an employee continues to fall short, even after you have had serious conversations (not weak attempts at being Mr./Mrs. Nice Guy), then remember, career transitions are not always a bad thing.  The emotions wrapped around family and financial responsibilities may cause the employee to think that being terminated is a bad thing, but sometimes, it’s the best thing for them and your company.

Being tough is not bad, in fact, it’s one of the best things you can do as a leader.