ARTICLE
Thank every direct report who shares bad news or criticism with you © 2019 Jhana Education, Inc. All Rights Reserved Why do it? The incentives are stacked against your direct reports leveling with you about the tough things you need to hear. On top of the power dynamics of your being the boss, research suggests that people are less liked simply for sharing negative news (and people generally want to be liked). So, it’s up to you to establish a safe environment where your direct reports can share hard truths and feel like they did you a favor, rather than regretting the moment they decided to speak up. How to do it: 1. Prepare a response for when direct reports share tough news or criticism. Bad news can prompt a negative knee-jerk reaction if you don’t have a better response handy. Try a simple, clear statement of appreciation and acknowledgment of the courage it took to come to you, such as "Thank you, I’m glad you told me. I know that probably wasn’t easy to share." 2. When bad news is shared with you, focus on keeping your body language open and upbeat. Cringing or clenching your teeth can send a stronger signal than anything you say. Even if what you just heard is making you panic inside, try to maintain relaxed body language — which can actually help you feel more calm. Aim to: Take a deep breath, nod, and maintain eye contact. Uncross your arms, face the other person, and even lean toward them to signal that you’re hearing the important message. Try to keep your body loose but still, without becoming a statue. 3. Use your prepared response immediately, then strive to understand the situation more clearly. People often think they need to respond to tough news in the moment — not true. Once you’ve thanked the person for coming forward, your first order of business should be to ensure you’re understanding what’s being said. Depending on your situation, you might want to paraphrase back what you’ve heard, ask clarifying questions, or simply ask for time to process the information. Whatever you say, try exhaling before you speak to reduce tension and keep your tone of voice as relaxed as possible 4. Follow up after the fact and reiterate your appreciation. Be sure to address the substance of your direct report’s news or criticism. And add an extra dose of positive reinforcement by thanking your direct report again for speaking up, making it clear that you hope he or she continues to do so.
© 2019 Jhana Education, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Why do it?
The incentives are stacked against your direct reports leveling with you about the tough things you need to hear. On top of the power dynamics of your being the boss, research suggests that people are less liked simply for sharing negative news (and people generally want to be liked). So, it’s up to you to establish a safe environment where your direct reports can share hard truths and feel like they did you a favor, rather than regretting the moment they decided to speak up.
How to do it:
1. Prepare a response for when direct reports share tough news or criticism.
Bad news can prompt a negative knee-jerk reaction if you don’t have a better response handy. Try a simple, clear statement of appreciation and acknowledgment of the courage it took to come to you, such as "Thank you, I’m glad you told me. I know that probably wasn’t easy to share."
2. When bad news is shared with you, focus on keeping your body language open and upbeat.
Cringing or clenching your teeth can send a stronger signal than anything you say. Even if what you just heard is making you panic inside, try to maintain relaxed body language — which can actually help you feel more calm. Aim to:
3. Use your prepared response immediately, then strive to understand the situation more clearly.
People often think they need to respond to tough news in the moment — not true. Once you’ve thanked the person for coming forward, your first order of business should be to ensure you’re understanding what’s being said. Depending on your situation, you might want to paraphrase back what you’ve heard, ask clarifying questions, or simply ask for time to process the information. Whatever you say, try exhaling before you speak to reduce tension and keep your tone of voice as relaxed as possible
4. Follow up after the fact and reiterate your appreciation.
Be sure to address the substance of your direct report’s news or criticism. And add an extra dose of positive reinforcement by thanking your direct report again for speaking up, making it clear that you hope he or she continues to do so.