Recently published research led by Alan Benson applies a rigorous academic lens to this question. And Alan’s answer is that there is evidence that sales managers just below their own quotas may retain poor performers for just this reason.

If you’re interested in more detail AND have a taste for the analytically rigorous, have a look at the full paper here: http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/Delivery.cfm/SSRN_ID2235922_code1634437.pdf?abstractid=2235922&mirid=1

Alan Benson is Assistant Professor at the Carlson School of Management.