Page 230 - Fearless Leadership

Talking Straight Responsibly 217

If you are the team leader, you must be willing to share your assessment
first to create a supportive and open environment. Before you begin, share
your personal commitment to building committed partnerships and talk-
ing straight responsibly, and how these practices will help the team deliver
business results.
Fearless leaders talk straight responsibly and do not wait for the right
moment; instead, they create the right moment. They make sure the way
in which they communicate advances both the relationship and business
results.

LEADERSHIP EXPLORATION

What Critical Conversations Are You Avoiding?
This question will not provoke an endless list, so do not be concerned.
However, most leaders have several critical conversations they are avoid-
ing and need to have. To get you started, identify what conversation you
are avoiding with (1) your boss, (2) a direct report, and (3) a peer. Ask your-
self these questions:

• What is preventing me from having this conversation?
• What reaction am I anticipating?
• What outcome do I want?
• Am I willing to take 100% accountability to achieve the outcome?
• What specific requests do I want to make?

Being a fearless leader is a bold step in trusting yourself to talk straight
responsibly, even when you are uncomfortable. Are you willing to have the
tough conversations? Are you willing to stop making up stories about how
you think the other person will respond, and simply have the conversation
that needs to happen? Are you willing to act now?

LEADERSHIP ACTION

Act Now; Be Fearless and Talk Straight Responsibly

1. Identify at least one critical conversation you need to have
and schedule a time to talk with the appropriate person.
Do not wait for the right time, the right moment, or the right