Feedback Builds Real Trust
July 12, 2025
This week I thought I would do something a little different. This week's article was written by a guest writer- my wife Ericka. This is an article she published this week in her newsletter Leadership Mastermind. Ericka does leadership coaching and training and provides live workshops for businesses. I hope you enjoy the article!
Feedback Builds Real Trust
Leadership takes courage. Not just the big, bold, stand-on-a-stage kind.
But the quieter, everyday courage it takes to give someone honest feedback.
Let’s be real—most people don’t love giving feedback.
It can feel awkward, emotional and/or confrontational.
So what do we do?
We soften it.
We delay it.
We avoid it altogether.
And in doing so, we tell ourselves it’s kindness.
But what if… it’s not?
Avoiding feedback doesn’t protect your team—it leaves them guessing.
And when people are left to guess, they fill in the gaps with stories:
“I must not be doing a good job.”
“Nothing I do really matters.”
“Maybe they’ve already given up on me.”
When you withhold feedback, even with the best intentions, you create confusion where there could be clarity.
Here’s what real feedback sounds like:
- It’s clear—not coated in vague suggestions.
- It’s kind—not cruel or condescending.
- It’s direct—but given with care and respect.
- It’s focused on growth—not punishment.
When feedback is rooted in support, not judgment—it builds trust.
It creates space for growth.
And it gives your team something so many people are missing: the gift of knowing where they stand.
So the next time you catch yourself hesitating having a needed conversation, ask:
Am I protecting them—or protecting myself from discomfort?
You don’t need to be harsh to be honest.
You just need to be willing.
And that’s courage.
Reflection:
Where in your leadership are you being called to have a courageous conversation this week? What steps do you need to take to make it happen?
Yours in Growth,
Ericka Ary