Rubber Meets the Road:
Here’s how to lead through change without pretending you have it all figured out:
1. Say the Three-Part Truth
“Here’s what we know. Here’s what we don’t know yet. Here’s when we’ll update you.” Clarity about uncertainty beats false confidence every time.
2. Reward the Red Slide
Whoever brings you the bad news early is doing you a favor. Thank them publicly, the way Mulally did.
3. Separate Your Doubt From Your Direction
You can be unsure of the outcome and still be clear about the next step. Uncertainty about the destination doesn’t mean you can’t lead the next mile.
4. Build a Regular Rhythm for the Truth to Surface
Don’t wait for a crisis meeting. Create a standing check-in where the real state of things gets said out loud, on schedule.
5. Model It Before You Expect It
If you want your team to admit what they don’t know, you have to go first. Safety starts with your own honesty, not a policy.