Why Top Performers Really Leave

weormond
Oct 4
1 min read

Updated: Oct 5

Open notebook with "High Performers" written in red, underlined. Red marker cap, keyboard nearby. Energetic and motivational mood. — Why Do Top Performers Really Leave?

When a high performer leaves, leaders often assume it’s about money. But understanding why top performers leave goes far deeper than money.

The real reasons why top performers leave are often overlooked by even seasoned leaders.

Why Do Top Performers Really Leave?

As executive coaches, we hear the same reasons time and again:

Poor leadership: Unclear direction, too many priorities, or constantly shifting targets.
Lack of clarity: Roles, goals, and accountability aren’t defined.
Dysfunctional team dynamics: Toxic team members, too much conflict, or worse, no constructive conflict at all.
No room to grow: A lack of development opportunities or mobility (upward or laterally).

Top talent doesn’t just want a paycheque. They want to contribute to something meaningful in a team that works well together. When those conditions break down, compensation won’t keep them.

If you’re losing your best people, it’s worth asking not just whether it’s really pay or leadership but whether you truly understand why top performers leave and what they need to stay.