Take a minute and think about a favorite childhood memory. What do you remember first?
For me, and likely for most of you, it isn’t what someone said or did. You may not remember the weather that day or the shoes you were wearing. What most likely comes to mind is how that memory made you feel. Comfort, love, elation, pride, excitement–these are the things that come back to us when we tap our memory banks.
Over time, the details of a situation fade or suffer revision. But the way something or someone impacted us never does.
Oftentimes, we find ourselves in difficult situations in the workplace. We have to make decisions that will cause harm to some, bring benefit to others. We have to discipline and reward. And sometimes, these activities take a back seat to the activity of the day.
Every time that you recognize someone’s accomplishments or give them feedback designed to help them self-correct, consider how that feedback will be taken. If the recipient of your message doubts your sincerity, or if your feedback is overshadowed by your delivery, you haven’t done your job.
Related posts:
- Make the decision: Managing your attention
- Leadership through effective meetings
- Managing your commitments, and a note on managing mine
- Five ways to increase your value by finding value in others
- 7 Keys to an Effective Open Door Policy for Managers
Get instant access to the Laser Guide on How to Create POWERFUL First Impressions (a $20 value) - FREE!
