Coaching for Leaders
727: How to Show Up Authentically in Tough Situations, with Andrew Brodsky
Mar 31, 2025
Andrew Brodsky, an award-winning professor and virtual communications expert at the University of Texas at Austin, discusses navigating authenticity in tough situations. He explores how authenticity can vary in virtual settings and emphasizes that clarity and empathy are key. Brodsky shares insights on using communication mediums, suggesting that sometimes audio or text can be more effective than video. He also highlights how minor mistakes can make leaders more relatable and how vulnerability enhances connections during challenging conversations.
37:44
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Quick takeaways
- Adapting communication strategies to fit challenging contexts is vital for leaders to effectively connect with their teams and foster trust.
- Recognizing emotional leakage and selecting appropriate communication mediums can enhance authenticity and prevent misunderstandings in tough discussions.
Deep dives
The Importance of Context in Communication
Adapting communication strategies to fit the context of challenging situations is crucial for effective leadership. Often, individuals strive to present themselves as authentic and likable, but this can prove difficult in high-stakes scenarios such as delivering bad news. A case study involving a CEO announcing layoffs via video illustrates how mismanagement of such a situation can lead to public backlash and employee dissatisfaction. The key takeaway is that leaders must consider how their communication is perceived by others to foster a supportive and productive environment.
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