How New Managers Can Be Direct Without Being Seen as Abrasive – Leadership Coaching Tips
How New Managers Can Avoid Being Seen as Abrasive
Stepping into a management role is exciting, but it comes with challenges—especially when it comes to communication. If you see yourself as direct but your team sees you as abrasive, it can create tension, lower morale, and hurt productivity.
So, how do you balance being clear and assertive without coming off as harsh? Leadership coaching and mentoring can help you refine your approach while keeping your authority intact.
Why Being "Just Direct" Might Not Work
Your intention might be to provide clear, no-nonsense communication. But how your message is received is what truly matters. If employees feel dismissed or criticized, they may disengage or become defensive.
Understanding this gap between intent and perception is key to becoming a respected and effective leader.
How Leadership Coaching Helps
Leadership coaching helps you develop self-awareness and refine your communication skills. Here’s how it can make a difference:
Boosts Emotional Intelligence – Helps you understand how your tone and body language affect others.
Refines Feedback Skills – Teaches you to give constructive feedback that motivates instead of discourages.
Improves Conflict Resolution – Equips you with strategies to handle tough conversations without causing friction.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentoring provides long-term guidance from experienced leaders who’ve been where you are. A good mentor can:
Offer Perspective – They’ll help you see situations from different angles.
Enhance Your Leadership Skills – You'll learn how to communicate with clarity and empathy.
Expand Your Network – Connections with experienced leaders can accelerate your growth.
Practical Tips for Better Communication
Here are a few simple ways to ensure your directness is effective—not abrasive:
Ask for Feedback – Regularly check in with your team to understand how your communication lands.
Listen More – Make a conscious effort to hear people out before responding.
Adjust Your Delivery – The same message can be said in a way that’s firm yet supportive.
Keep Learning – Take leadership training or coaching sessions to refine your skills.
Reality check:
You don’t have to choose between being direct and being liked—you can be both. By improving your communication style through leadership coaching and mentoring, you’ll earn respect, foster trust, and create a positive work environment.
Need help fine-tuning your leadership style?
Coaching can give you the tools to lead with confidence and clarity.