Perhaps you are one of the people who operate with a ‘business is business’ sensibility. Or perhaps you identify with ‘it’s not personal’.
For your consideration…when people are involved, it’s always personal. And, it’s business. And sometimes, feelings get hurt. At work. In business. It’s a real thing. While it was not your intention (to hurt feelings), it will sometimes be your impact.
Let me be crystal clear: I’m not suggesting you allow your good business sense to be derailed by the possibility that someone’s feelings might be hurt.
I am, however, suggesting that you consider how you deliver your message and maintain relationship, and keep engaged someone whose commitment matters in getting the results you want.
To do this, you take responsibility for the impact of your decision. You do this by sharing the thinking behind the decision you made, and acknowledging its impact. You make the time for a personal conversation, rather than assume the decision will speak for itself. You do not delegate the conversation to someone else. You maintain connection (relationship) while doing what you believe is best for your business.
I am not suggesting you do this with everyone, or every time you make a decision. I am suggesting you consider it – every time you make a decision with a significant people impact.
When working with people, it’s all personal.