Radical Candour: Transforming Feedback into a Tool for Growth…
💥 Feedback doesn’t have to feel awkward or hurtful. When done right, it becomes a powerful tool to spark purpose, build trust & inspire growth. Radical Candour is about combining honesty with empathy…giving feedback that’s both constructive & human.
But here’s the thing: feedback can either empower or harm, depending on how it’s delivered. Soooo, let’s explore what Radical Candour is, how it works & how to ensure it creates connection instead of conflict! 🤯
What Is Radical Candour?
At its core, Radical Candour is a balance between two key elements:
Challenging directly: Being honest, clear & straightforward
Caring personally: Showing empathy & genuine concern for the individual
When these 2 are combined, feedback becomes an opportunity for growth. It’s not about sugar coating or being brutally honest…it’s about being clear & kind, with the intent to help, not hurt.
When Done Right: How It Helps
🔥 Fosters Trust & Connection: Feedback becomes a way to deepen relationships when it’s delivered with empathy
🔥 Encourages Growth: Honest feedback helps people see opportunities for improvement while feeling supported
🔥 Boosts Confidence and Motivation: When feedback is framed constructively, it empowers people to take action
When Done Wrong: How It Harms
❌ Too Harsh or Blunt: Honesty without empathy can feel like an attack, leading to defensiveness or disengagement
❌ Too Soft or Vague: Sugar coating feedback can dilute its message, leaving people unsure of what to improve
❌ Ignoring Individual Needs: One-size-fits-all feedback ignores personality & communication styles, which can alienate rather than inspire
How to Deliver Radical Candour Effectively
Here are 3 practical tips to get started:
1️⃣ Be Clear & Kind
Honesty doesn’t have to mean harshness. Choose words that encourage growth rather than trigger defensiveness. E.g. instead of saying, “You always miss deadlines,” try, “I noticed this deadline was challenging…let’s discuss how we can make it easier next time”.
2️⃣ Tailor Feedback to the Individual (VAK)
People process feedback differently based on their preferred communication styles:
Visual learners: Use charts, diagrams, or examples to illustrate your points
Auditory learners: Focus on tone & clarity when speaking
Kinaesthetic learners: Provide actionable suggestions or steps they can physically engage with
By tuning into their style, you can ensure your feedback resonates.
3️⃣ Keep DEIB in Mind
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging matter when giving feedback. Be aware of cultural differences, unconscious biases & individual experiences that might shape how feedback is received. E.g.:
Use inclusive language that avoids stereotypes
Recognise & celebrate diverse approaches to problem-solving
Avoid judgmental phrasing that could unintentionally exclude or offend
Radical Candour in Action: Understanding Personality Differences
Personality differences also play a huge role in how feedback is received:
Big-picture thinkers thrive on concepts & vision - don’t overwhelm them with granular details
Detail-oriented individuals prefer specific feedback they can act on - keep it structured & clear
When feedback aligns with personality, it becomes a tool for collaboration & progress, not frustration!
Feedback as Fuel for Connection & Growth
Radical Candour, when done right, can transform feedback into fuel for deeper relationships, boosted confidence & reignited motivation. It’s not just about pointing out what’s wrong; it’s about growing together.
Let’s use feedback to create connection, inspire action & empower those around us. After all, feedback isn’t just about improvement…it’s about shared progress.
Your Next Step
Ready to incorporate Radical Candour into your personal or professional life? Let’s explore how tailored coaching can help you master feedback techniques that create impact & build trust.
Email me to start a conversation about how we can work together! Or book a free confidential call.
