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.