One indicator of effective leadership is being open to influence and willing to change your mind. It is suggested that if a leader has already made up their mind and just wants team members to implement their decision, it's not the right time to stay quiet. Leaders can either express uncertainty and invite thoughts from the team or indicate their direction while encouraging discussion of downsides and alternative ideas. It is recommended to set a mutual agenda for conversations, promoting open dialogue and shared objectives in decision-making.
Jeff Wetzler: Ask
Jeff Wetzler is co-CEO of Transcend, a nationally recognized innovation organization, and an expert in learning and human potential. His experience spans 25+ years in business and education, as a management consultant to top corporations, a learning facilitator for leaders, and as Chief Learning Officer at Teach For America.
He is a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network and is an Edmund Hillary Fellow. Jeff is the author of Ask: Tap Into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You for Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life*.
Leaders are not the only people who need to have difficult conversations in the workplace. Yet, leaders set the tone for how much people are willing and able to talk about hard things. In this episode, Jeff and I discuss how leaders can make it easier for those important conversations to happen.
Key Points
In one study of managers, most people admitted to remaining silent with their bosses and nearly 75% said colleagues also felt uncomfortable speaking up.
Meet people on their own turf. Others are more likely to speak up if they are in a setting that’s more comfortable for them.
Leaders should consider shifting timing and/or medium to one that’s of the preference for the person who doesn’t have power.
Explain why you’re asking about a topic and your intention for a conversation at the start. Providing context prevents people from having to guess at your agenda.
Set a mutual agenda for a conversation by asking a question like, “In addition to this, what else should be part of our conversation today?”
Establish a tone for open communication by radiating resilience. Words like these might help: “If I were in your shoes, I might be feeling frustrated or even resentful. If that’s how you’re feeling, I would understand completely. Please don’t hold back.”
Resources Mentioned
Ask: Tap Into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You for Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life* by Jeff Wetzler
Interview Notes
Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required).
Related Episodes
How to Ask Better Questions, with David Marquet (episode 454)
The Way Out of Major Conflict, with Amanda Ripley (episode 529)
How to Grow From Your Errors, with Amy Edmondson (episode 663)
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