Can This Old Dog Learn This New Trick? 

I’ve been told more than once that I have a rather undiplomatic communication style when talking about business problems and solutions. I’m quick to arrive at a conclusion. I push my opinion strongly. And I’m blunt.

I would describe it as passionate and supportive. That’s how it feels to me. But when it comes to communication, it doesn’t matter what the communicator feels. What matters is how well the message gets across and what, if any, the unintended consequences are.

I’ve been communicating this way for more than 40 years. And with dozens of businesses and hundreds of executives. Overall, it’s worked for me. And for the businesses I’ve grown.

That doesn’t mean a kinder and gentler version of what I do would not have worked better. I don’t know. Neither do my critics.

But I believe – no, I know – that there is a better way to communicate my criticisms and suggestions. And I want to learn. In fact, I’m getting coaching right now from a partner and colleague who is very good at this skill I haven’t yet mastered. So, there’s hope!

I was reminded of my struggle to make the change when I saw this clip about Katelyn Ohashi, the Olympian gymnast whose career was turned around when her coach figured out how to be more supportive. Click here.