Value No-holds-barred Sessions

Surely you wouldn’t do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right? Genesis 18:25

Wow! That was Abraham talking to God after being told that Sodom and Gomorrah would be consumed by fire. You and I know the story’s outcome, but Abraham didn’t, and I’m struck by his boldness.

There is also a valuable leadership lesson in God’s calm response to Abraham’s approach.

Good leaders allow key people to speak freely without fear of reprisal.

In a former position, I prearranged with my boss that I would reserve such conversations until we were alone. I always prefaced my comments with, “Mr. President.” When he heard me say that, he knew I was heading into sensitive territory, and he honored me with his undivided attention.

Many leaders are isolated by the necessity of spending more time in the future than the present. These occasional no-holds-barred sessions can provide tremendous insight.

Are you the type of leader with whom people can speak freely? Don’t answer too quickly.