How do you share unpopular decisions?

Results Driven
Written By Stacia Aylward

The Challenge

Think of a time you had to make an unpopular decision. It could be either personal or professional. How did you share your decision with the people who would be impacted by it? How did they receive the news, and is there anything you could have done differently to improve the result of that conversation?

Why do this?

At some point in your career or personal life, you will have to make a decision you know is right but that everyone else hates. In these situations it's important to be both decisive and maintain your relationships.

Being able to foster buy-in even when a decision is unpopular is a key leadership skill.

What’s next?

Next time, try this phrase (if appropriate): "I know you are not excited about this decision, but will you take a chance with me?"

Stacia Aylward

Zelos CEO Stacia C. Aylward is an executive leader and lifelong learner with broad professional experience in envisioning and leading programs, projects and teams; facilitating and teaching adults; conducting research; and developing client relationships using proven methodologies in many government and technical fields, including economics, education, healthcare, housing, non-profit governance, IT and law. Stacia holds a master’s degree in Communication and Information, a bachelor’s degree in English, a Six Sigma black belt certification, and a Coach Approach to Leadership credential.

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