Is it Possible to Build a Great Sales Team Despite a Toxic Manager?

Yes. Yes, it is. I would not have thought so either. But I have seen it firsthand.

Challenging Leadership

Not just a bad manager, but one of the worst human beings I have ever been unfortunate enough to meet. Probably a sociopath, certainly insane, and a total spoiled brat of a person that can only make his parents cringe in shame.

The Resilience of the Sales Team

But the salespeople—oh, those wonderful, talented people—were handpicked by someone with real talent, not the person who became their manager. They were extremely motivated and took their idiot manager's tantrums, poor decisions, and terrible work ethic in their stride. They got on with the job and sold and sold and sold.

Support Systems and Resilience

I like to think that having access to some excellent technical support may have helped them too. It is not just the quality of the team but also the support systems that can contribute to their resilience and success.

Factors Contributing to Success

1. Talent and Motivation: Salespeople are often selected based on their talent and drive. They are not just hired for their formidable skills but also for their unwavering motivation to succeed, even in challenging conditions.

2. Support Systems: Technical support, training, and mentorship play a crucial role in helping salespeople navigate difficult situations. Access to strong support can provide the tools they need to thrive in less-than-ideal environments.

3. Resilience: The ability to remain resilient in the face of adversity is a critical trait for any salesperson. In the presence of a toxic manager, the ability to focus on the task at hand and maintain high performance is a testament to their professional integrity.

Conclusion

Building a great sales team despite a toxic manager is not only possible but also a testament to the resilience and talent of the team. While such a scenario is challenging, it underscores the importance of fostering a supportive environment and selecting the right individuals who can thrive under less-than-ideal conditions.