3 tips for delivering bad news

We know delivering bad news is never easy. You may be tempted to find a way around having to convey an uneasy message, but as a leader it’s important that you become more comfortable with it, because it’s an inevitable part of business. Here are 3 tips to help you when you have to deliver bad news.

Be direct

When it’s time to deliver the news, make sure you’re hyper-focused on the point of your message. The worst thing you could do is beat around the bush. Think of it like removing a Band-Aid. Sure, the news may hurt, but it’ll be a lot worse if you don’t get right to the point. Practice what you’re going to say beforehand and make sure it’s short and simple.

Be quick

When you first realize that there’s bad news to deliver, don’t delay. It’s not going to get any easier, so you want to make sure the message is conveyed in a timely manner. The situation probably isn’t going to get any better, and waiting will only cause you to be anxious.

Be mindful

Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and think about how you would feel if you were the one receiving the news that you have to deliver. Think about not only the words that you have to say, but your body language and the setting you’ll be in. The receiver could have mixed emotions so remember they may need time to process the information you’re giving.

Always be respectful when delivering a less-than-stellar message. Some things are hard to hear, so try not to make it more difficult than it has to be.