Redwood Performance Group

When speaking uncomfortable truths to leaders, leadership, talent management and OD expert, Leslie Michener recommends the do’s and don’ts shown below. Leslie also delivers more insights and stories in this webinar, including the relationship between truth and power in the workplace, what to do before you speak your truth, and what to do when you speak your truth.

  • Do focus on what’s in the best interest of your leader. Always give feedback from a position of truly wanting to help (not to punish or teach a lesson).
  • Don’t make this about you.
  • Do keep your objective top of mind … why are you doing this?
  • Don’t ask if they’ve got a minute … it’s more important than that and will take longer than that.
  • Do consider and be prepared to live with all the possible outcomes.
  • Don’t feel guilty. Your leader deserves to know the truth about what isn’t working or has to change so that they can improve.
  • Do be honest, open and respectful. It’s ok to start the conversation by telling the leader what you need to discuss and how you are feeling about it. Let them know your intentions are good.
  • Do invest yourself by demonstrating your competence, integrity, care for the relationship.