616 | How to Address Underperforming Leaders Without Crushing Their Confidence

Maybe you’ve got someone on your team who’s struggling, and you’re dreading the conversation. You don’t want to demoralize them, but you also can’t ignore the problem.

So how do you handle this in a way that leads to improvement and not fear? That’s what we’re covering today on The Chris LoCurto Show.

Leading people is tough, especially when a leader on your team isn’t performing well. You don’t want to come down too hard, but you also can’t just let it slide.

Today, I’ll show you how to handle these conversations the right way—so you can actually fix the problem instead of creating fear or resentment.

We’ll go over the two types of underperforming leaders, how to approach these conversations with curiosity instead of criticism, and how to drive real improvement. Plus, I’ll share real-world examples along the way.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:
IBM Story (00:01:30)
A powerful example of how IBM’s CEO turned the company around by handling tough conversations with curiosity and accountability.

Understand the Two Types of Underperforming Leaders (00:03:03)
Learn the difference between the ‘aware but stuck’ leader and the ‘oblivious’ underperformer—and why each requires a different approach.

Start the Conversation with a Gentle Hand (00:09:21)
Tough conversations shouldn’t feel like an attack. Here’s how to start with empathy and curiosity to encourage positive change.

Get Their Perspective Before Jumping to Conclusions (00:12:57)
Don’t assume you know why someone is struggling—ask the right questions first.

Shift the Focus to Solutions and Ownership (00:16:02)
Instead of guilt-tripping, guide them toward real solutions they can own and implement.

Next-Level Leadership LIVE Event 2025 (00:18:54)
Join us in April 2025 to learn how to lead a team that operates without you doing everything yourself.

Set Clear Next Steps with Encouragement (00:21:46)
Give clear expectations, check in consistently, and ensure real improvement happens.

Additional Resources (00:24:49)
Want to go deeper? Check out these episodes where we role-play tough conversations to see exactly how to navigate these situations:

• 379 | Leading Through Tough Conversations
• 595 | Face the Facts: Stop Avoiding Tough Conversations in Business – Part 2

Underperformance is an opportunity for leadership growth. If you approach it with curiosity, empathy, and clarity, you’ll develop stronger leaders and a healthier team.

Who on your team needs this conversation today? Approach it with the right mindset, and you’ll build them up—not break them down.

That’s it for today’s episode! Now go take action. Change your leadership, change your business, change your life!