EXCEPTIONAL LEADERS...
Do Not Tolerate Communication Triangles

Values Beliefs Traits Emotions A communications triangle occurs when one person complains or gossips to a second person about a third person.

Exceptional Leaders understand the cultural damage that results when ‘triangulating’ is allowed to exist.

They know that it is unacceptable to get something off your chest by complaining to one person about another person. Communication triangles can pollute the culture of an organization with unresolved complaints and gossip. It is a symptom of powerlessness and serves no useful purpose.

The solution is to create a culture where employees are encouraged to openly and constructively confront one another when issues arise. Exceptional Leaders reinforce this by coaching employees to take responsibility for solving problems with others. They set the example by constructively confronting those who have the power to make changes, rather than complaining to those who don’t.

 

? Thought Provoker

  • Do you gossip or complain about others behind their backs?
  • Do you listen to others' complaints when you do not have the power to do anything about them?
  • Do you encourage others to communicate directly to those with whom they have issues?
  • Do you foster a culture of openness by encouraging others to constructively and directly address?
  • Do you encourage employees to take action over what they have control over and to not complain about what they don't?
 

Organizations that are open and encourage constructive confrontation rather than powerless complaining are more successful.

Email this page to a colleague

Print this page

Next Page