Courage
Rising up to tackle difficult, uncomfortable, and/or uncertain issues and saying what needs to be said.
Rising up to tackle difficult, uncomfortable, and/or uncertain issues and saying what needs to be said.
Less Skilled
Shies away from difficult issues or challenging assignments.
Expresses point of view in an indirect manner or not at all.
Avoids giving corrective feedback.
Fails to take a stand on important issues.
More Skilled
Readily tackles tough assignments.
Faces difficult issues and supports others who do the same.
Provides direct and actionable feedback.
Is willing to champion an idea or position despite dissent or risk.
Very Skilled
Tackles difficult issues with optimism and confidence.
Shares sensitive messages or unpopular points of view in a motivating manner.
Lets people know where they stand, honestly and sensitively.
Volunteers to tackle and lead tough assignments.
Over Skilled
Struggles to identify which battles to take on and when to back down.
Shares point of view on everything and could be seen as intimidating or a “know-it-all.”
Communicates bluntly and fails to recognize the impact on relationships with others.
Neglects own work in favor of getting involved in multiple difficult issues.
Potential Issues
Dislikes pressure.
Strong desire to people-please.
Concerns about hierarchy or standing.
Fears being wrong.
Fears losing.
Gets emotional.
Doesn’t like to be out in front.
Doesn’t identify strongly with any issue.
Isn’t self-confident.
Resource List
The Courageous Follower: Standing Up to and for Our Leaders (Amazon Book)
Be More Assertive: A Teach Yourself Guide (Amazon Book)
Courage: The Backbone of Leadership (Amazon Book)
Confidence: How Winning Streaks and Losing Streaks Begin and End (Amazon Book)
Dare to Lead (Amazon Book)
The Power of Vulnerability (TED Talk Video)
Courage: The Defining Characteristic of Great Leaders (Forbes Article)
Eight Ways to Develop Your Courageous Leadership (Social Enterprise Academy Article)
It Takes Courage to be a Leader (Management Skills Inc. Article)
Assertiveness Training (Online Course)
Assertiveness Training for Managers (AMA Course)
Are You Assertive Enough (AMA Article)