The reasons people have for doing what they do reveal a great deal about their character, values, fears, and needs.
This is especially true when we examine why people speak up and register their views with others.
Finding the courage to advocate, contribute, or opine on an issue or in a given situation is not always easy. People must have a good reason to expose their candid views to others.
Some team members arrive armed every day with strong reasons for speaking their minds. But other team members find it difficult to muster the courage to state their views.
Perhaps they just need a solid reason to speak up. That’s where a good leader comes in.
Good leaders remind those who lack the courage to share their candid views of the many good reasons they have for speaking up.
Here’s a short list:
My role or position requires that I do so. I care about the outcome. I want to stand out and be heard. I need to support people. Other voices depend on my resolve. Because I won’t like myself tomorrow if I don’t. People will be treated unfairly if I stay silent. I fear a bad decision if I don’t speak up. I desire to make a difference. I will let others down if I don’t. The situation demands it as injustice is occurring. I desire change. Others value my contribution. Others will think less of me if I don’t. In the future, I’ll be recognized for my contribution. I want to bring closure to an issue.
Reminding team members of the many reasons they have for sharing their candid views can make a world of difference.
Reticent colleagues often haven’t thought through the many reasons they should speak up. Good leaders not only set an expectation that everyone, no matter how junior, inexperienced, shy, or inexpert, has an obligation to let others know their views, but they go a step further. They encourage others to think about the consequences of remaining silent.
The reasons people have for speaking up often lay the foundation for discovering the courage they need to contribute. Reviewing the reasons why team members should express their candid views is usually all that is needed to open the floodgates.
Good leaders are not only conductors, orchestrators, educators, and directors. They are also reminders.
A Daily Dispatch from the Front Lines of Leadership.
