I suspect that some people attempt to use the concept of radical candor – as described by Kim Scott in her book of the same name – without fully understanding the concept. Radical candor doesn’t mean getting in someone’s face. It means saying what needs to be said, while also caring personally about the person on the other side of your conversation.

It’s honesty with a healthy dose of compassion. It’s being willing to face the truth without being harsh or needlessly critical.

This is a complicated subject to address, because people are so different. One leader is reluctant to have difficult conversations, while another is a bit too eager to do so. In a similar manner, some people crave feedback, while others fear it.

I’ve found it useful to think about candor as something I wish to employ as well as encourage others to practice with me. Some of my greatest learnings have come when another person shared something I did not see or understand but cared enough to bring new facts, insights or perspective to my attention. I strive to do the same for my clients, colleagues and friends as much as possible, trying to live out the mantra that candor + compassion is a gift we all can give each other.