Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.
Kristina Wright, SCMP
corporate, internal & employee communications ? executive writing ? simplifying the complex ? wired for efficiency ? CERTIFIED: Strategic Communications Mgmt Professional & Prosci Change Mgmt Practitioner
About 6 months ago, I had the opportunity to be part of a leadership book club that read the great Brene Brown's book “Dare to Lead.” Above anything else that I learned from that book (and trust me, there was a lot!), this is the piece that stuck with me:
CLEAR IS KIND. UNCLEAR IS UNKIND.
Consider this excerpt:
Most of us avoid clarity because we tell ourselves that we’re being kind, when what we’re actually doing is being UNKIND and UNFAIR. Feeding people half-truths or BS to make them feel better (which is almost always about making ourselves feel more comfortable) is UNKIND. Not getting clear with a colleague about your expectations because it feels too hard, yet holding them accountable or blaming them for not delivering is UNKIND. Talking about people rather than to them is UNKIND. This lesson can transform your life.
These behaviors do not exhibit leadership. Or courage. Actually, it's quite the opposite.
People need clarity. Friends and family. Coworkers and employees. And I don’t believe there’s such thing as “too much” clarity, as long as you openly share the approach that – sometimes – very clear plans and goals and ambitions DO change. Nothing is set in stone, and we never really know what tomorrow will bring. Leaders and organizations must have the ability to pivot. When that happens, you communicate clearly, ensure that employees understand the “why” behind the change, and you move forward in confidence.
Leaders need to cast vision, set direction and ensure all employees understand where the company is going – and how their individual roles contribute to the success of the whole. That is where trust and loyalty are born. Because clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.
#communications #clarity #leadership
Manager at US Bank - Application Reliability Engineering Mgr
5 年Great Thought Kristina.? You had me at Brene Brown but I have not yet read this book.? Solid concept.? CLEAR IS Kind.
Vice President Payments and Service Operations
5 年Love this. That is one of my favorite leadership books! Brendon Burchard had a similar message last week. Heathy relationships need explicit communication. Great message!
IT Application Administrator at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
5 年Great article Kristina! Clear communication with the 'why' is so important.? I needed this reminder today.