Most of us have either heard of toxic workplaces, have managed one, or worked in one.  There is always “that one person” that creates the toxicity and in many instances this is an executive who is a high-performer and committed to the company.  However, what does top management do with an executive such as this?  Bruce A. Heller certainly does have suggestions to turn the situation around with compassion and professionalism in “The Prodigal Executive.”

Heller explains that at least 8 out of 10 disruptive executives can be kept, but specific coaching and training must first take place. He does warn that comebacks don’t happen overnight, but with time, patience, and proper coaching, the executive can continue with high performance but with a more conducive attitude.

Toxicity in a workplace creates an attitudinal waterfall that affects employees at all levels. And, it starts at the top.  Heller encourages top management with a simple suggestions of how the changes can be made, however, he also stresses the executive in question must recognize the issue and be committed to change. Once committed to change, the process becomes an effort at all levels (top management, co-workers), not only by the derailed executive.

I was pleased to see that Heller addresses “Family of Origin Dynamics” and the importance of knowing employees do bring issues with them that have been passed down for generations.  He stresses “Remember, what we learn in the family we bring into the workplace.” (p 55)  Much study has been done in this area and it is proven that imprints do effect how we perform, or live our lives.  Knowing how imprints effect people, top management can work with derailed executives by encouraging them to look at those imprints and make the necessary changes by re-writing the imprinted script.

Heller gives leadership tools in “The Prodigal Executive” that are proven effective and easy to implement. The writing is concise, yet powerful.  There is no fluff, just good solid information that works.  I can see this 116-page book used as a training tool with top management; however, that said, any employee can benefit from the information presented.  It would certainly give them the understanding of what really does go on when a derailed executive is being re-directed.

Purchase The Prodigal Executive
Bruce A. Heller, PhD
AuthorHouse (2009)
ISBN 9781438960265
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (12/09)