Restoring Performance
of Former High Performers
Support for managers and HR when a valuable employee starts underperforming — and standard approaches are not working.
LET'S FIND SOLUTIONS
When Performance Decline of Former Top-Performer Is Hard to Address
Not all performance issues are the same.
In large tech organizations, a specific pattern appears —
employees who previously performed at a high level begin to lose momentum.
They:
used to deliver strong results
gradually become less consistent
show lower engagement and ownership
do not respond to feedback or standard performance management
They stay in the organization but stop contributing at their full potential.
Hidden business costs
loss of productivity without immediate visibility
increased risk of attrition among high-potential talent
high replacement and rehiring costs
prolonged underperformance despite formal interventions
“He used to be one of my strongest people. Now I’m considering a PIP — but it doesn’t feel right.”
Limitations of Existing Approaches
Current solutions (PIPs, internal well-being support) are necessary but often insufficient:
PIPs can increase pressure without addressing root causes
internal well-being support is typically general, not targeted, and slow to activate
neither is designed for fast recovery in high-stress or burnout scenarios
Solution - Performance Recovery Program (3 months)
When to use
This program is most effective:
when performance decline is noticeable
when engagement and ownership start to drop
when standard approaches are not delivering results
before a formal PIP is initiated
Early intervention significantly increases the chance of recovery.
Outcomes
return to baseline performance
increased engagement and accountability
retention of valuable employees
reduced risk of long-term absence or resignation
improved manager confidence in handling complex situations
Protect performance before it turns into a cost.
Pilot offer
Start with a focused, low-risk pilot:
1-3 employees
3-month program
clear structure and measurable outcomes
optional light-touch manager alignment
Designed to validate impact before scaling.
Our clients
Performance Recovery Program (3 months)
A structured, short-term intervention designed to:
restore energy and work capacity
identify and address underlying blockers
rebuild ownership and accountability
support employees in regaining performance and focus
Format:
10 individual 1:1 online sessions
structured, goal-oriented process
optional alignment with manager
15+
Years working with teams & leaders
1000+
Hours of coaching conversations
Dozens of leaders
supported in difficult situations
International
Corporate experience
TESTIMONIALS
What clients say
"Aleksandra brings a lot of experience in dealing with burnout and difficult behaviour, which added real value in difficult situations. "
— Martin Jankela, Senior Engineering Manager @Siemens Industry Software
"Aleksandra's intervention and expertise helped us streamline processes and boost productivity. A game-changer for our company."
— Piotr Zubrycki, Director AI Engineering @BlockWise
ABOUT
Hey, I'm Aleksandra
With over 10 years of experience in HR@IT and leadership environments, I support organizations in navigating complex performance challenges — especially when previously reliable employees start to disengage and underperform.
My work focuses on restoring capacity, ownership, and performance in situations where standard tools are no longer effective.
Solution-Performance Recovery Program
(3 months)
Initial Alignment
We define the current situation, key challenges, and expected outcomes to ensure clarity and a focused starting point for the program.
Structured 1:1 Process (10 sessions)
A focused, step-by-step process that addresses underlying blockers, rebuilds capacity, and supports the employee in regaining performance and ownership.
Performance Stabilization & Closure
The program concludes with improved performance, increased engagement, and a clear return to effective functioning in the role.
*Light-Touch Manager Alignment (optional)
Brief alignment points with the manager ensure the process stays connected to business needs, while maintaining full confidentiality and requiring minimal time involvement.
Are you interested? Leave your contact details.
Pilot program
Start with a focused, low-risk pilot for up 1-3 employees.
3-month structured intervention
Up to 10 sessions
Structured, step-by-step process tailored to the individual
Optional light-touch manager alignment
Clear program closure with visible outcomes
@2026 Take the Lead Aleksandra Kulga, All rights reserved.
