Listen, Challenge, Commit 6 | 17

Radical Candor: Communication at Work

Strategies for managers to communicate distinguishing feedback that is up for discussion versus directives that need to be followed.

Kim and Jason answer a listener question addressing a critical aspect of leadership: how to ensure that feedback leads to actionable results. They dissect the listener's dilemma about differentiating between feedback that should be considered and feedback that must be implemented. Through a detailed discussion, the hosts provide invaluable advice on maintaining a balance between directive feedback and encouraging open, constructive dissent within teams. Listen as they share techniques for overcoming resistance to feedback, setting performance standards, and building a culture of commitment and collaboration.

Episode Links:

• PMWorld 360 article about Andrew Grove and his “Listen, Challenge, Commit” philosophy

Connect:

• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• X
• YouTube

Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Kim Scott and Jason Rosoff introduce the episode and outline a listener's question on how to ensure feedback is implemented, not just considered.
(00:02:01) Discussing Feedback Acceptance
Strategies for managers to communicate distinguishing feedback that is up for discussion versus directives that need to be followed.
(00:04:08) Encouraging Disagreement
Handling resistance to feedback and strategies for managers to foster an environment where feedback is given and also constructively challenged.
(00:06:35) Listen, Challenge, Commit
The commitment phase of the feedback process, and the importance of committing to a path forward after feedback and disagreement.
(00:11:26) Subjective Feedback and Data-Driven Decisions
Challenges of subjective feedback and the importance of using data to support feedback and decisions when possible.
(00:13:55) Addressing Feedback Resistance
Methods to address and overcome resistance to feedback with focus on recognizing good ideas, even if they deviate from the manager's initial thoughts.
(00:16:39) Handling Personal Feedback
Kim shares a personal anecdote to illustrate how perceived aggression can impact feedback reception, and addressing such issues directly.
(00:26:22) Radical Candor Tips
Actionable tips for implementing radical candor in leadership, emphasizing listening, challenging directly, and committing to a course of action.
(00:27:46) Conclusion