Alykhan Sunderji talks Stack Ranking with Virginia Backaitis at ReWorked

Alykhan Sunderji discusses his experience at Amazon and Stack Ranking – a controversial performance management tool

As the world of talent management evolves, new and old practices come and go, with some being more controversial than others. One such practice that has resurfaced in recent years is stack ranking, also known as forced ranking. This method involves ranking employees in a given team or department based on their performance, with the aim of identifying the top performers and potentially weeding out the weaker ones.

However, is stack ranking a fair and effective way to evaluate employees? And what are the potential drawbacks of this method? These are some of the questions that Alykhan Sunderji, founder of Sunder Legal, has explored in an article cited by Reworked, a website focused on the future of work.

In the article, Sunderji argues that while stack ranking can help companies identify their top talent and improve overall performance, it can also be demotivating for employees who are ranked lower and can lead to a toxic work environment. He notes that this method can also create a culture of competition, where employees may prioritize their own interests over those of the team or the company as a whole.

Sunderji suggests that a better alternative to stack ranking is to focus on ongoing performance management, where managers provide regular feedback and coaching to employees, and work collaboratively with them to set goals and improve performance. This approach can create a more positive and supportive work environment, where employees are motivated to improve and succeed.

At Sunder Legal, we believe in the importance of fair and effective talent management practices. While stack ranking may work for some organizations, we encourage our clients to consider other methods that can promote a positive and collaborative work culture. Our team of experienced employment lawyers can provide guidance and support to help your organization implement effective talent management strategies, while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

As the world of work continues to evolve, we remain committed to staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in talent management. Contact Sunder Legal today to learn more about how we can help your organization thrive.