Leaders like to think they know when and how to be direct. They should. Direct communication is good. Damaging communication, on the other hand, can destroy a relationship, partnership, sale, or reputation forever.

Why does one listener consider a comment “over-the-top” disrespectful, while another listener interprets the same remark as just “firm,” straightforward, even prudent?  Why does one media outlet report a politician’s statement as a huge blunder, while another outlet reports the same comment as appropriate and even justified? 

Jason, an executive client, shared his new year’s goal with me:  “I want to become a more inspiring speaker so that my employees really catch the vision for this upcoming year and get engaged.”