Balancing respect and assertiveness is essential when providing feedback to senior management. Show you’re invested in solutions, not just problems.
Two Traps
People often fall into one of two traps:
Too Passive: Some individuals agree with everything a leader says. They avoid offering ideas or challenging decisions, even when it’s necessary. This can make them seem disengaged or lacking initiative.
Too Direct: Others deliver their opinions bluntly without considering how their message might be received. While their honesty is valuable, the lack of tact can come across as disrespectful or dismissive.
Neither approach works well. To communicate effectively, share your perspective in a way that encourages openness and collaboration.
Use Positive, Forward-Thinking Language
Focus on solutions instead of assigning blame. Avoid making leaders feel defensive by framing your input constructively. An example:
Avoid: “This failed because you insisted on X,”
Try: “To address this challenge, we could consider Y.”
This approach shifts the conversation from problems to possibilities.
Adopt a Collaborative Tone
Diplomatic language signals that you’re a team player who values the leader’s perspective. Some examples:
“I’d like to suggest an idea…”
“What if we tried…”
“How do you feel about…”
“One option might be…”
Avoid being corrective. By framing your suggestions as collaborative, you build trust and increase the chance that your ideas will be heard.
Build on Common Goals
Link your suggestions to shared objectives. Examples:
“To achieve our timeline, we might explore…”
“To stay within budget, could we try…”
Striking the Balance with Feedback to Senior Management
Effective feedback to senior management requires both tact and confidence. Show that you’re invested in solutions, not just problems. This builds rapport, strengthens your credibility, and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.
Communicating with FINESSE is a not-for-profit community of technical professionals dedicated to being highly effective communicators and facilitators. Learn more about our publications, webinars, and workshops. Join the community for free.
Comentarios