Tough Love

As leaders of organizations, we often think about how to deliver feedback to the people on our teams.  We've learned various strategies on what to do, what not to do, how to prepare.  Yet, it still often feels hard and uncomfortable.

Think about the flip side.  Are you getting feedback from your teams, your clients, your colleagues, or your board members?  Do you have someone who is providing you with the tough love or "radical candor" that you need so you can lead effectively? 

Most of us dread when people say, "can I share something with you?" because we know it's probably going to make us feel like we screwed up.  When that feedback is delivered as a tough love message, it's a bit easier to swallow.  It's easier because we know the other person is sharing it because they want us to be successful.

I have someone in my network that is that deliverer of tough love about how I'm leading my business.  I have a love/hate relationship when I hear the feedback.  I never like the reminder that what I'm doing isn't perfect (even though I know it will never be) but I know that this feedback will make my content better, my message delivery more impactful, and, ultimately, my business more successful. 

I'm competitive with myself, and I don't want to let this person down in achieving what they believe I have the potential to do.  Two powerful motivators.

Do you have this person in your network today?  If not, it's probably time to start looking for them.  They will be the catalyst you need to make your organization more successful.

If you've never read it, it's worth reading Radical Candor:  Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity.