11. Speak Straight.

 
Express yourself honestly in a way that moves the action forward. Be clear and direct, but thoughtful. Bring the water cooler to the meeting and have the courage to ask questions, share ideas, or raise issues that may cause conflict when it’s necessary for team success. Address issues directly with those who are involved or affected.

Pete's Message:

 

Does Speaking Straight mean speaking the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? NO! Doing that without thinking of the other parties involved can be rude! Does this mean to lie? NO!

In business and personal relationships, we are often tasked to deliver unwanted or difficult news. Regardless of the news, if done with Tact, Honesty and Integrity, it will be well received. Even if it’s not, most of the time the other party will appreciate you telling them.

A customer wants to know if their delivery is delayed, the product is damaged, or the truck had a flat tire. This is as important as knowing that everything is on time. They need to be able to make arrangements. They don’t want to pay a crew to sit and wait for something that’s not coming or is damaged.

If you are unhappy with something and never speak of it, no one will ever know. Sometimes this is okay. Other times not.

When I was a child, a friend of my father’s would often come over after work. On occasion he would bring me a couple of chocolate chip cookies left over from his lunch. I thought this was because he knew I loved them.

I found out later in life that it was because he disliked chocolate chip cookies. He didn’t want to tell his wife he hated them because she loved baking for him.
So he could have looked at this two ways:
• Tell the baker in hopes of getting a different flavor cookie.
• Tell the baker and risk never getting cookies again!
If you ask me, he made the right choice! I still love cookies!

So “Speak Straight”, but it’s best not to speak when you’re angry. Most times you will say things you will regret later.

We have all heard things like “think before you speak” or “Once the words leave your mouth they can’t be retrieved.”

So think about what you’re about to say and ask yourself:

Is it True
Is it Helpful
Is it Inspiring
Is it Necessary
Is it Kind

Have a great day!

Pete Isaacs
Building Products & Multi Family Housing Specialist | Famous Supply