Why Leaders Must Say What They Mean
Positioning, spin, strategic ambiguity – why do so many leaders fail to say what they mean?
Leaders worry that if they say what they really mean…
- Someone might panic
- The truth will leak
- Employees will make bad choices
- They’ll become disengaged
Spinning the truth has all of those same side effects, only worse. When humans aren’t told the truth, the stories they concoct to fill in the blanks are far more dramatic than the actual scene.
I’m always surprised by how surprised employees are when they’re told the honest truth.
- “I’ve never heard that feedback before.”
- “Thanks for respecting us enough to include us in the solution.”
- “It’s refreshing to hear what’s really happening”
- “Thanks for giving us advanced notice.”
When we are clear about our values, thought processes, and rationale, our teams get a behind-the-scenes view of our choices.
Why We Must Say What We Mean
Meaning It Creates Alignment
When we are clear about our values, thought processes, and rationale, our teams get a behind-the-scenes view of our choices. It is far easier for team members to align with a vision they fully understand.
Meaning It Builds Trust
Trust begets trust. When we trust enough to share a bit about ourselves, the relationship deepens. When we show we trust in the team, they are more likely to reciprocate. When there is less information available, people do what they can to fill in the blanks. Usually the imagined future and actions are far more distasteful than the reality.
Meaning It Accelerates Change
In times of change and crises, people crave meaningful conversation. Truth-telling reduces anxiety, speculation, and chatter. When people are focused on the work, the change moves more quickly and smoothly.
In times of change and crises, people crave meaningful conversation.
People will learn more when they are on the inside. They learn more from understanding the nuances and underlying struggles behind a decision. Leaders learn from watching leaders. By having more meaningful conversations, you will get more honest feedback and support that you can use in your own leadership journey.
Meaning Begets Meaning: When we treat people with trust, they trust us. When we mean what we say, others will say what they mean.
How to Say What You Mean
Speak from your Heart
Speak with confident humility. Be honest with your thoughts and feelings.
Speak your Truth
Share your perspective and how you got there.
Speak with Compassion
Consider the impact of your words, and choose them well.
Speak what Should be Said
Speak about the difficult truths others avoid.
Speak with Confidence
Articulate your truth with energy and poise.
Call for stories. Please click here to share your experiences of when saying what you mean, made a difference.
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