Show you’re worried about how it lands
Want to tell someone a hard truth? It will be more likely to be heard or accepted if you deliver it in a way that shows you’re worried about how it lands.
When your setup illustrates you care about the relationship, it will go easier on both of you.
I'm a little hesitant to bring this up, but I think it's important for us to discuss...
I value our working relationship, and that's why I need to share something with you...
I'm not sure how to say this easily, but I think it's important you should know...
The best feedback challenges directly and shows you care personally. A powerful way to make sure they know you care about them is to show you’re worried about how your difficult message will land, up front.
