Delivering bad news
Let's talk about the part of leadership no one wants to discuss: bad news.
You know the feeling. The pit in your stomach when you realize you have to tell your team something they don't want to hear.
Maybe it's budget cuts. Or a project cancellation. Or worse, layoffs.
Here's the truth: How you deliver bad news says more about your leadership than how you deliver good news.
Your team doesn't expect you to sugarcoat things. They expect you to be real.
So be real. Speak plainly. "Our numbers are down. We need to make cuts."
Don't hide behind corporate jargon. It doesn't soften the blow. It erodes trust.
When you don't have all the answers, say so. "I don't know yet, but I'll find out."
Your team will remember how you made them feel in this moment.
Did you treat them like adults? Did you show genuine concern?
Bad news is a chance to show what you're made of. To demonstrate integrity.
It's not about being perfect. It's about being present. Being human.
Your team may not like what you say. But they'll respect you for saying it straight.
Remember: Leadership isn't just about the good times. It's about ALL times.
So stand tall. Speak truth. Be the leader your team needs, especially when it's hard.