Recruitment dilemma: How to deal with a nodding dog

Recruitment dilemma: How to deal with a nodding dog

clock

Of all the characters you can have on your team, a nodding dog may seem the most benign, but is potentially the most dangerous with a lack of enthusiasm that can quickly make attitudes go sour....

The nodding dog is deeply unhappy at work. You may sense this intuitively or someone you trust may pass on a vibe from a previous conversation with those involved in confidence. The trouble is that when you take the time to try to engage with or even just communicate with a nodding dog, they tell you everything is fine or even great. There are no complaints from them. They understand and agree with everything that's going on in the business - until they are out of earshot. Other members of staff may be aware of their complaints and camaraderie encourages them to join in. Their perf...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

News editor's view: Let's give it up for the small advice firms

News editor's view: Let's give it up for the small advice firms

The news editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 22 May

Isabel Baxter
clock 22 May 2026 • 4 min read
Women more likely to seek professional financial advice – research

Women more likely to seek professional financial advice – research

Twenty percent of women likely to seek advice

Sophia Panayi
clock 22 May 2026 • 2 min read
The expectation gap: Why suitable advice can still fail the client

The expectation gap: Why suitable advice can still fail the client

'The industry is moving from suitability, to understanding and now to expectation management'

Elly Dowding and Lee Coates
clock 22 May 2026 • 4 min read