Lead with belief

I’ve got a client who had to deliver hard news to one of his employees – this employee was not getting the big promotion he’d been working toward and counting on. My client nailed it. He led with belief first. He believes in his employee’s ability, cares about him and his career, AND doesn’t believe he’s right for this role.

His employee teared up – not out of anger or frustration – but because he felt the belief. They still sorted through the tough details of why he isn’t yet ready and where he needs to grow. Necessary points to clarify in order to move forward. The melody line he left with though was one of belief, rather than a feeling of lacking.

If you don’t have any belief, don’t fake it. Then it’s time to have an entirely different conversation. When you do have it, lead with it. Share the hard truths, make sure they feel the belief behind it.