Embrace the Messenger
Creating a culture where difficult feedback is not just tolerated but embraced is crucial for building trust and safety.
Summary
This leadership approach emphasizes the importance of reacting positively to bearers of bad news or tough feedback. By demonstrating appreciation for honest communication, leaders can create an environment where team members feel safe to share concerns and critical insights. This openness to feedback fosters a culture of continuous improvement and psychological safety.
The idea
A vital moment for creating safety is when a group shares bad news or gives tough feedback. In these moments, it's important not simply to tolerate the difficult news but to embrace it.
The Evidence
You have to "hug the messenger", not shoot them. Let them know how much you need that feedback. That way, you can be certain the next time they feel feel safe enough to tell you the truth again.You have to "hug the messenger", not shoot them. Let them know how much you need that feedback. That way, you can be certain the next time they feel feel safe enough to tell you the truth again.
Actions to Take
Thank your team for sharing the bad news.
Sources
Embrace the Messenger
Cultivate Trust Through Positive Reception of Feedback
Summary
This leadership approach emphasizes the importance of reacting positively to bearers of bad news or tough feedback. By demonstrating appreciation for honest communication, leaders can create an environment where team members feel safe to share concerns and critical insights. This openness to feedback fosters a culture of continuous improvement and psychological safety.
Embrace the Messenger
Cultivate Trust Through Positive Reception of Feedback
Summary
This leadership approach emphasizes the importance of reacting positively to bearers of bad news or tough feedback. By demonstrating appreciation for honest communication, leaders can create an environment where team members feel safe to share concerns and critical insights. This openness to feedback fosters a culture of continuous improvement and psychological safety.
Embrace the Messenger
Cultivate Trust Through Positive Reception of Feedback
Citations
Podcast
Creating a culture where difficult feedback is not just tolerated but embraced is crucial for building trust and safety.