What we don’t address, we endorse.
Many leaders have lately commented to me that they are afraid to have a “courageous conversation” with someone on their team because they fear that if the conversation does not go well, they may lose the person and not be able to replace them for many months. Some feel their businesses could not afford that or justify it.
That fear assumes there are only two options, either have the conversation and lose the employee or don’t have the conversation and keep them. I believe there is a third option which is to have the conversation and not only keep the employee but also actually strengthen the relationship. This only requires one thing: coaching.
You can learn how to have courageous conversations with anyone that will set (or reset) boundaries, clarify expectations, and advance skill levels without judgment, demands, or angry exchanges. You don’t have to fear these conversations; rather, you should fear not having them.
Not having these conversations is the real enemy to your leadership, department, or company. All of your team members are watching, waiting, and evaluating your actions (or non-action) when it comes to expectations. When they see you avoid or fear these conversations, they start to write their own rules, but when they see that you are not afraid, and better yet, that you look forward to any chance to clarify your invitation into your vision, values, standards, strategic goals, and expectations, they are intrigued and inspired, and they learn that they can count on clarity and fairness from you. They also recognize the respect that is communicated with this approach—respect for their ability to choose what is right for their dreams, their career, their values. And when they do choose to continue aligning with your standards and business goals, they do so not as a victim of your expectations but as a respected professional.
If you are a leader, manager, owner, or aspire to be any one of these and have not invested in leadership communications coaching, I urge you to consider it. It’s easier than you think and will have a immediately positive affect on your team and your business.
“Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives, but none about his or her own.”
~ Paulo Coelho
Comments
I would love to learn more about the programs you offer
Wonderful, Anna! We would love to speak with you about our coaching programs and services. I believe my business manager, Kelly Case, has already reached out via email. I look forward to speaking with you soon!
Thank you for this WONDERFUL reminder. As leaders, we need support and empowerment and you’re such a great resource for both!
Thank you, Tiffany, for that kind compliment. You are a great leader and I’m looking forward to watching you continue to lead your team to new heights in the coming year.
Love this! Thank you for the reminder.
You are most welcome, Shoshanna. It’s a good reminder for all of us, me included! 🙂 Here’s to a great week ahead!