2.05 – Share Truth for Performance Excellence

Truth Not Opinion helps leaders gather facts and reduce assumptions. Leadership is hindered when assuming knowledge rather than actually knowing and not acknowledging guesses or assumptions. As I said earlier, asking questions is an essential skill for leaders and is necessary to separate guesses from truth or facts. Leaders who rely on too many assumptions, especially when being undisciplined not to ask questions, will hurt the people, the organization, and themselves. Truth is the Essential Foundation shows how truth plays a more significant role in organizations than most believe. It is also something that people can handle and will enable enhanced performance when sought. And, when used to help develop people, with kindness and mercy, it is extremely beneficial rather than hurtful as many people believe. Truth Encourages Excellence focuses on performance rather than emotions. It helps leaders create a structure of truth, not letting emotional conflict prevent candor and clarity. Truth is critical for developing the best in those being led or managed. Mastering the four steps of Reality, Story, Plan, and Feedback enhances employee performance and learning. Step 1 uses opposites to help move the conversation to the real issue.