The most underrated phrase in leadership.

Think about times throughout your career you received difficult feedback. Examples might include:

• “Redo this.”

• “This is terrible work.”

• “I don’t have time to share feedback. I had to rewrite this.”

Throughout my career, I’ve heard stories about people’s heightened stress and anxiety levels, not just because of the content of the feedback but even more so the lack of context.

This is why we need to consider using the most underrated phrase in leadership:

“And here’s why.”

When delivering a difficult message, include the context.

• “We’re taking you off the project, and here’s why…”

• “I had to rewrite your plan, and here’s why…”

• “You’re not getting promoted yet, and here’s why...”

This is essential when giving positive feedback as well.

• “We’re giving you a bonus, and here’s why…”

• “Here’s an extra-paid day off. Thank you for your work, and here’s why…”

• “We’re giving three months additional fully-paid parental leave, and here’s why…”

Taking a few extra moments to share this context will reap huge rewards for those you manage, ultimately making you a more impactful leader.

-mrm