Many leaders I know are over-thinkers, including myself.
We worry about things and lose sleep over difficult conversations.
Like… how do I give feedback without hurting feelings?
But leadership is never a popularity contest.
And we know the longer we avoid difficult conversations, the bigger the problem becomes.
Yet, many of use still avoid them.
So over the years, here are a few things that have helped me:
🟣 Don’t wait till we’re angry because it’s harder to manage our emotions then.
🔵 Always ask questions first.
🟢 Say what needs to be said early in the conversation and get to the point respectfully. This is not the time to build suspense.
🟡 Be clear, and use examples to help people understand better.
🟠Pause, listen, and be comfortable with silence – people need time to process feedback.
🔴 Agree on next steps before ending the conversation.
People actually know leaders are not perfect.
But they do expect leaders to address issues before they become bigger problems.
And remember, kindness and directness can coexist.
Muster the courage, and have that difficult conversation.
If we only want the easy conversation, perhaps what we really want is friendship, not leadership.
Think about it.
xoxoxo
