Page 75 - Fearless Leadership

62 FEARLESS LEADERSHIP

Be prepared for the fact that people may be uncomfortable and unwill-
ing to provide you with candid feedback. If this is the case, work is needed
to establish trust and safety, which is covered in Part II of this book.
Follow the steps below for the discussion.

Step 1. Be courageous and share your blind spots. Provide
specific examples and ask: “What blind spots do you see that I
have missed?”
Step 2. Take accountability for your impact. Ask: “How do my
blind spots impact you? Do you have to work around me, do you
comply, do you withdraw your emotional commitment and
energy? How does my behavior frustrate you?”
Step 3. Ask your group to coach you on how to be more
effective. Ask: “What coaching do you have for me? What actions
do I need to take to be a better partner and leader for you? How
can I learn and grow in my effectiveness?”
Step 4. Acknowledge the group. Express your appreciation for
the willingness of others to speak up and provide you with
candid input.

Things do not change; we change.

—HENRY DAVID THOREAU
(1817–1862)