Business performance across an extended period of time partially hinges on the efforts of B players as well as those superstar performers we all revere. B players are willing to make a significant commitment and contribution, yet they are often overlooked in favor of the “rainmakers”. There are plenty of myths about B players and even some bald-faced lies. Below, we delve into the truth about B players to help your MSP company understand the manner in which these individuals should be engaged.
Myth #1: The Timing of B Players Engagement is of the Utmost Importance
B players should be engaged when the employment market is booming and businesses are trying to retain talent. These are the same individuals who argue when times are tough. It does not matter whether B players are engaged or disengaged as they will simply remain in place as there are no other options. It might be possible to take B players for granted, yet there is no guarantee the business in question will achieve improved productivity across posterity. The better approach is to spend on the broad middle of the workforce, even instances when the company is downsizing. The end result will be the type of enhanced flexibility every business needs.
Businesses that strictly focus on A players will not enjoy the same benefits as those that make a point of engaging B players. Those who have experience with both approaches will testify that focusing on the superstar employees is myopic. Rainmaker employees are certainly important for driving sales and revenue, yet they tend to have a higher turnover rate. These individuals tend to be more focused on their careers, while B players are often more focused on the business. Employees in the middle are institutionally loyal and likely to adopt more of a long-term view to help the business enjoy the benefits when the new strategy is in place.
Myth #2: Employers, such as Google, Do Not Have B Players
Some hiring managers are strictly on the prowl for A players. In fact, some such managers claim they have only hired A players throughout the years. Some such decision-makers claim that there is a massive stigma in tech that a character like Dilbert of comic strip fame could easily work in anonymity as a middle manager for years if not decades. Such companies tend to reject the notion of employing B players, yet the truth is few employees are in the top 10 percent. Though B players do not seek the limelight, they certainly play valuable roles in all companies, from Google all the way down to an MSP company and small mom and pop businesses.
B Players are Certainly Flawed, yet Their Contributions Must be Recognized
The moral of the story is to recognize the important role B players have at your MSP company. Though B players certainly have their shortcomings, these weaknesses have the potential to be converted into strengths. So, don’t believe the hype about B players being unimportant. These hard workers know their role and produce with consistency. Perhaps most importantly, B players tend to hang around for the long haul. These are the dependable workers your company needs to provide consistently reliable service.
