Encyclopedia of Leadership

• Confronting someone who has no ability to correct the situation is irresponsible. In
  addition to damaging your relationship with this person, such an action could dam-
  age that person’s self-confidence and self-respect.
  ? Will this increase your respect for yourself and for the other person?


• Mutual respect is critical to maintaining a sense of teamwork and community in the
  workplace. Confrontation works best when you have a basic level of respect and
  goodwill for the other person and a desire to improve your working relationship
  with this person.
  ? Are you willing to work with and support the other person?


• You must be willing to own your part of the problem, do your part to improve the
  situation, and provide support to the other person as he or she takes the necessary
  steps to improve the situation. [☛13.1 Coaching]
  ? Are you sure that none of your own hang-ups are in this feedback? Ensure that:


• Your feedback is as objective and sincere as possible.


• You are not bringing in baggage from the past that is no longer applicable.


• Your own biases and beliefs are not being inappropriately imposed on the other per-
  son.
  [☛8.1 Conversations]
  ? Is it possible that instead of, or in addition to, your feedback, this person needs more
  guidance, support, understanding, encouragement, or recognition?

HOW TO USE THIS LEADERSHIP TOOL

“There is risk you cannot afford to take (and) there is risk you cannot afford not to take.”

—Peter Drucker, THE FRONTIERS OF MANAGEMENT

Prepare yourself for giving difficult feedback to others by answering the questions presented

here. Be as specific and honest with yourself as possible. You might find it helpful to have a

friend, coach, or trusted colleague assist you with your preparation. In addition, if the conse-

quences of giving feedback poorly are significant, you might even role-play giving feedback

with a colleague prior to the actual event.

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376 SECTION 12 TOOLS FORLEADINGRELATIONSHIPS

1. What one or two things can you do to prepare yourself to give direct and honest feedback? (Be as specific as
   possible.)