The world is full of brilliant, high-achieving people who are total jerks to everyone around them. They get away with it because they have a high financial impact. But there are hidden costs to tolerating a Brilliant Jerk's behavior in your company.

What is a Brilliant Jerk, and how can you identify them?

A Brilliant Jerk is someone excellent in their role but a total jerk to everyone around them. They are challenging to work with, disrespectful, and always putting their own needs first. Despite their negative behavior, they are productive and have a high financial impact.

The hidden costs of Brilliant Jerks and what to do about it

The hidden costs of tolerating a Brilliant Jerk on your team include higher turnover, increased recruiting and training costs, lost business, and negative impacts on your brand and reputation. While the Brilliant Jerk's productivity may offset the financial losses, it's much harder to repair a negative brand reputation and earn back the trust of lost clients.

What to do about Brilliant Jerks in your company

Ridding your team or company of Brilliant Jerks may be the correct approach, but try to address the behavior first. This conversation can be difficult. Here are some tips:

1. Recognize their exceptional talents and contributions to the company and team.

2. Encourage cooperation and collaboration, and reward them for working together effectively.

3. Implement a system for complaints or concerns so that employees can safely and anonymously report bad behavior.

4. Promote a positive work culture where respect for others is valued more than profits.