When companies struggle to grow, leaders often point to underperformers at the bottom or top of the corporate ladder—the so-called "C-players" or "A-players." But according to Deepali Vyas, an experienced recruiter who’s interviewed over 50,000 executives, the real problem often lies with those in the middle: the B-players.
In a recent TikTok video, Vyas, who has worked with major firms like ZRG and Korn Ferry on executive search and talent strategy, shared her insights on the differences between these types of employees. "Most people think they’re A-players until they understand what an A-player truly is," she said.
Vyas explained that A-players thrive on challenge, B-players crave recognition, and C-players are focused on staying safe and out of the spotlight. "A-players welcome pressure; they grow in it. B-players chase praise and surround themselves with C-players who will help them take credit. C-players, on the other hand, just want to remain unnoticed," she said.
She also pointed out key personality traits: A-players are confident, B-players are calculated, and C-players are overly cautious. But while C-players tend to hide to avoid mistakes, Vyas emphasized that the biggest obstacle to a company’s success is often the B-players.
"B-players are competent but insecure," she said. "They do just enough to get by and avoid anything that might expose their weaknesses. While they may appear effective, they block progress, slow innovation, and limit the potential of those around them."
According to Vyas, B-players stifle growth without anyone realizing it. "They may look like they’re contributing, but they’re quietly holding back performance and preventing A-level talent from flourishing. A-leaders avoid them, A-players outgrow them, and eventually, companies move on without them."
@elite.recruiter A/B/C Player Framework A Players Chase Pressure. B Players Chase Credit. C Players Chase Comfort. Most people think they’re A players… until they hear how A players actually operate. Here’s the truth no one in HR will tell you: 🔺 A players seek challenge. They want pressure, feedback, stretch goals, and people who elevate them. 🔸 B players seek credit. They hire down, protect their ego, and look competent while quietly slowing the whole team down. 🔻 C players seek comfort. They avoid risk, avoid conflict, avoid growth — and eventually get left behind. After 25 years and 50,000+ executive interviews, I can spot a B player in seconds… and I can definitely tell when I should be marketing an A player straight to my clients. If you want to understand how leaders REALLY classify talent behind closed doors… Comment “ZOOM” and come to my next live webinar. I’ll break down the promotion politics, power dynamics, and hidden rules that decide who rises and who gets quietly sidelined. My mission — I tell you what they won’t. #corporatetruths #careeradvice #eliterecruiter #officepolitics #aplayer ♬ original sound - Elite Recruiter - Deepali Vyas