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Can You Handle the Truth?
No one likes to hear bad news, but these days success in business
is all about information. The consequences of not facing upsetting
news can be devastating. History abounds with examples of leaders
who were sunk by the cowardice of yes-men who tried to “protect”
them (and themselves) by withholding information.
If you want people to tell you the truth, make it easy
for them to do so by being approachable. Here are some tips:
• Keep your cool. Refrain from reacting with anger or defensiveness.
• The bearer of bad news is doing you a favor. Acknowledge
their candor.
• Pay attention and listen to what the person is saying.
• It is not necessary to agree with the other person, nor
to accept everything they say. However, do explain your point
of view in light of the facts.
• If you ultimately decide to go with your initial opinion,
let the other person know and thank them. You will both leave
the conversation in a mindset of honesty and trust—and they
will be more likely to be honest the next time.
What if you have to be the bearer of bad news? What if
the recipient of this news typically reacts poorly to such information?
• Consider to what extent the person has “earned”
the truth. If they get angry, resentful, spiteful, or defensive,
they’re not going to listen to what you have to say anyway.
• Disclose as much as you feel is necessary. Assume that
they may overreact, but also remember that such behavior is not
your fault.
• If you're feeling brave, you may want to tell them tactfully
that they don't make it easy for people to be honest with them.
They then have the choice of whether they use that advice.
Truth is a two way street. The privilege of hearing the truth
is earned. If you can show your employees and coworkers that you
can handle the truth, you may not always be happy with what you
hear, but you will be kept in the loop. There are times when no
news isn’t necessarily good news.
This tip is sent to you courtesy of Ari Tuckman, PsyD, MBA, licensed
psychologist and speaker, and the Pennsylvania Psychological Association,
sponsor of the Psychologically Healthy
Workplace Award.
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