In the spirit of giving thanks, this quarter I want to talk about how reframing gratitude can help you structure your business in new ways. Often, when we think of what we’re grateful for, we consider the opportunities we’re given or the kindness we’ve been shown, etc. But what about those hard truths? Do you think your employees would be grateful to have a leadership team that’s open and honest? Would you appreciate an employee who is honest with you?
Consider this: If your friend had a piece of food stuck in their teeth, are you the type of person to tell them or let them walk around like that? If the food were in your teeth, would you be grateful to know? Or would you be offended?
Sometimes, the trickiest part of running a business is having tough conversations with your team. These conversations generally aren’t about food in their teeth; the stakes are much higher. Still, it’s better for everyone to address the elephant in the room. Addressing it correctly allows for course correction, reflection and Traction. You can’t grow as a company without it.
Having those conversations is tricky and should always be done respectfully. Below are five ways to have those tough conversations in a Healthy and productive way, while keeping your Vision for your business front and center.
Tip #1: Come Prepared
Before you walk into a tough conversation, take time to prepare. Write down three specific examples or scenarios that support what you need to discuss. This keeps the conversation factual rather than emotional.
And above all, assume good intent. Most people don’t wake up planning to underperform or create friction. When you approach a challenge with curiosity and respect, you position yourself as an ally to that person, not an adversary.
This approach reinforces the Healthy component of EOS: strong communication and trust. It also gives you a chance to learn something new about how your business operates. Perhaps something that might shift a process or spark better teamwork. That’s real Traction in action.
Tip #2: Protect Privacy
This is a simple one, but it’s so important that it’s still worth mentioning. Never underestimate the value of privacy. Difficult conversations should always happen in a private, distraction-free setting. This isn’t about secrecy, but about respect.
When team members feel safe, they’re far more likely to open up and engage in honest dialogue. This strengthens your team’s foundation of trust, which is key to maintaining a Healthy organization. Private discussions also model behaviors you want to see across your business: respect and solution-focused communication.
Tip #3: Act Quickly
It’s best to approach difficult situations as soon as possible, rather than avoiding it or letting problems fester. Once you have three specific examples nailed down, do your best to schedule this meeting within 24 hours.
The longer you wait, the bigger the issue feels (for both parties). Acting quickly helps you stay aligned with your Vision and prevents small frustrations from turning into long-term problems. Solving issues quickly also lets your team move forward with clarity and confidence, one of the key elements of Traction.
Tip #4: Know Your Goal
Before you start the conversation, be clear on what success looks like. What do you want to walk away with? Are you simply informing the person of an issue, or do you need to develop a corrective action plan with a due date?
Having a clear outcome gives the discussion purpose and direction. This is key to ensuring everyone is aligned on your shared Vision. When all parties involved understand the goal, it’s easier to stay on track and avoid emotional detours. You’ll both leave the conversation with accountability and alignment on what happens next.
Tip #5: Be on the Same Side
When tensions rise, it’s easy to slip into a “me vs. you” mindset. Remember, when you’re having these tough conversations, your mentality should be “us vs. the issue.” Attack the problem, not the person. Set the tone that you’re on the same side, collaborating on a solution in a safe space.
Acknowledge the shared goal: you both want the business (and each other) to succeed. This mindset shift is the heart of Healthy. When people feel seen, respected, and supported, they’re more likely to respond constructively. Even when the feedback isn’t easy to swallow.
Conversations That Build Culture
When you follow this structure for tough conversations, you cultivate a culture of respect and trust within your organization. The value of that reaches far beyond solving isolated issues. You build a team that’s grateful for open, two-way communication, holds themselves accountable, and works together toward a shared Vision.
As a Certified EOS Implementer, I help teams have tough conversations productively. Remember: what you tolerate, you endorse. These conversations – which could otherwise be avoided or swept under the rug – are often catalysts for incredible change. This change leads to real growth, whatever that looks like for your organization.
If you need help navigating those tough conversations with your team, I’d love to chat. Call or text me at 616-914-4417, or send me an email to schedule a quick, 15-minute chat. Let’s have a conversation we’ll both be grateful for.