Good morning, Leaders! It’s Friday!

According to a Google web search, candor is defined as…

can·dor
ˈkandər/
noun
the quality of being open and honest in expression; frankness.
“a man of refreshing candor”
synonyms:

frankness, openness, honesty, candidness, truthfulness, sincerity, forthrightness, directness, plain-spokenness, bluntness, straightforwardness, outspokenness;informal-telling it like it is
“I’m not sure he appreciated my candor”

I often tell people “I prefer candor” because it sets the stage for an efficient, two-way conversation. No bull, no wasted words, just the facts.

As an example, in an effort to placate me regarding a tough work issue, one day my former CIO spent fifteen minutes dancing around what he really wanted to say which brought my snarky sense of humor to a head and I said, “You just wasted the last fifteen minutes of my life! What the hell?! Tell it like it is. Don’t beat around the bush.” Needless to say, after that our conversations were more blunt, and we got to know each other better because he became more open.

Unfortunately, those with a diplomatic preference might consider candor unnecessary honesty and concerning those currently in the political dog show (we are all being subjected to lately) we’re getting bombarded with verbose, infantile, shrill and braggadocios commentary that resonates with the anger of the body politic but…where are the issues, what groundbreaking policy or substantial solution has come from any candidate?

Candor is not spewing garbage when someone happens to be listening, it’s:
•straightforward
•unbiased
•without platform
It is the unadulterated and refreshing truth.

I also found out on multiple occasions it is NOT going to win any popularity contests. So,

•Choose your audience wisely.

•Ease them into your communication preferences.

•Be aware.

•Apologize when you’ve inadvertently offended someone.

In summary, aim for ‘Direct, respectful, but not mean.’

Have a blessed weekend.