Say the hard thing. Keep the trust.

Name the behavior and impact, reset expectations, and make a direct, respectful request.

Ruth delivering the example with a reserved expression and hands held close
Before

Give direct behavioral feedback

Sometimes you can be a little intense in meetings, and people may not love that.
  • Main point is harder to find
  • Language reduces conviction
  • The next step stays unclear

More examples to compare.

13 more · 14 total

All difficult feedback scenarios

Each scenario has a permanent page that can be opened, shared, and revisited directly.