The boss did not look happy.
– We’re not happy, Sid.
Sid’s performance was negative. The flows were negative. The team was negative.
– I need some time, Bella. It will turn around.
The boss sat still as a cat, her pale eyes staring.
– We’ve given you time.
What would he tell his wife? What would he tell his kids? What would he tell his biking mates?
– Performance can’t just be turned on, Bella. Markets don’t work like that.
The boss shook her mouse. Her screen turned on.
– These are the facts, Sid. Your performance is negative. Your flows are negative. Your team is negative.
Sid nodded.
– But the valuations of our stocks are as depressed as I’ve ever seen, Bella.
The boss sighed through her nose.
– My clients don’t pay for your depressed valuations, Sid. They pay for performance. And you’re not performing.
Sid nodded again.
– Yes, but when the market recognises the value, the performance will turn around. It needs more time, Bella.
The boss shook her head.
– No, Sid. No more time. You’ll clear your desk by six.
Sid shook his head.
– No, Bella, wait. With the greatest respect, you can’t.
The boss stood up and held out her hand, her pale eyes glinting.
– Hand over your security card, Sid.
Sid stood up. He bent over and spat in the boss’s upturned hand.
– I never liked you. No one likes you.
The boss walked to the open door.
– Security!
Reflection
- What do you imagine to be the sequence of events that brought Sid & Bella to this point?
- What prior conversations between Sid & Bella could have averted this breakdown?
- What advice would you give to a colleague who seems set to play the role of Sid or Bella?
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