Smart ideas for employers and job seekers
By Linda Sasser
Haha! Isn't that a statement we've ALL said and heard at least a handful of times in our lives? When we're the ones saying it, we usually mean that our comments or criticisms aren't meant as an insult or an attack. We're just focused on the issue at hand.
When we hear it though? Well, that's totally different. When our feelings or our pride has been injured, "Don't take it personally!" is NOT what we want to hear!
So, how do we not take it personally when it really feels personal? And how do we share our thoughts in a way that doesn't harm the other person?
If you think you might be taking it personally:
If you're the one saying "don't take it personally," consider:
If you are actively working with real, live humans, you will both unintentionally offend and unintentionally be offended throughout the course of your career. Strive to communicate with compassion when sharing your thoughts and extend plenty of grace when receiving feedback from others. You'll be a better leader for it.
About the Author
Linda Sasser
Linda Sasser is the founder and CEO of Impacting Leaders, a firm focused on helping companies achieve their goals by growing and developing leaders at every level. Prior to establishing Impacting Leaders, Linda was responsible for stewarding and growing the John Maxwell business brand. Linda credits much of her leadership development experience to her 20 years in the staffing industry, first as the franchisee of five Express Employment Professionals locations in and around Austin, Texas, and then as the vice president of sales and marketing at the company's corporate headquarters.
Linda's leadership expertise reflects her experiences as a small business owner and a corporate executive. She believes that leadership is not a technique, position, or title, but rather who you are, and it is the responsibility of current leaders to coach and develop each new generation. Connect with Linda on her blog at www.leadershipwithsass.com, where she blogs on how leaders can live out leadership.