Every team has its ups and downs. But when one person consistently drags the energy, productivity, and morale down, it’s more than just a bad day. It’s a pattern. And if you’re a small-town leader trying to build something meaningful, one underperformer can quietly sabotage the whole vibe.

Here’s the kicker: they usually know they’re underperforming. And that awareness can lead to defensiveness, disengagement, or even quiet resentment. So how do you spot it before it spreads like a slow leak in your team’s momentum?

Let’s break it down.

1. They’re Always “Busy,” But Nothing Gets Done

You know the type. Their calendar is full, their desk is cluttered, and they’re constantly “in the weeds.” But when you look at actual output? Crickets.

This isn’t about hustle—it’s about results. Underperformers often hide behind busyness to mask a lack of clarity, confidence, or capability. They know they’re not delivering, so they overcompensate with noise.

Small-town WOW fix: Ask for outcomes, not activity. Create simple weekly check-ins focused on what was accomplished—not just what was attempted.

2. They Avoid Accountability Like It’s the Flu

When things go wrong, they’re quick to deflect. “I didn’t get the info in time.” “That wasn’t my responsibility.” “I thought someone else was handling it.”

This pattern isn’t just frustrating—it’s contagious. If one person dodges responsibility, others start to follow suit. And soon, your team’s culture shifts from ownership to avoidance.

Small-town WOW fix: Build a culture of radical responsibility. Celebrate those who own their mistakes and learn from them. Make accountability a badge of honor, not a punishment.

3. They’re Quiet in Meetings (But Loud in the Breakroom)

Underperformers often go silent when it’s time to contribute ideas, solve problems, or take initiative. But catch them in the hallway or breakroom, and suddenly they’ve got plenty to say—usually about what’s wrong.

This passive-aggressive behavior is a sign they know they’re not pulling their weight. Instead of stepping up, they step back and stir the pot.

Small-town WOW fix: Create safe spaces for honest feedback—but pair it with clear expectations. If someone’s got ideas or concerns, they need to bring them to the table, not whisper them behind it.

4. They Clock In Emotionally Checked Out

They show up physically, but mentally? They’re somewhere else. You see it in the lack of eye contact, the minimal effort, the “just enough” attitude.

This kind of disengagement is often a sign they’ve lost belief—in themselves, the mission, or the team. And they know it. They’re just hoping no one notices.

Small-town WOW fix: Reconnect them to the “why.” Remind them of the impact their work has on the community. Sometimes, a dose of purpose is the spark they need to re-engage.

5. They Resist Growth (Even When It’s Handed to Them)

You offer training, mentorship, new challenges—and they politely decline. Or worse, they nod along and never follow through.

This resistance isn’t about laziness. It’s often rooted in fear. They know they’re underperforming, and growth feels like a spotlight on their shortcomings.

Small-town WOW fix: Normalize learning curves. Share your own growth journey. Make development feel like a team sport, not a solo climb.

One Bad Apple Can Sour the Barrel

In small towns/small businesses and tight-knit teams, culture is everything. One underperformer—especially one who knows they’re underperforming—can quietly erode trust, energy, and momentum.

But here’s the good news: with clear expectations, compassionate leadership, and a little small-town/ small business grit, you can turn things around. Or, if needed, make the tough call to protect the team.

Because your mission matters. Your people matter. And your community deserves a team that shows up, steps up, and lifts each other higher.