My father often used this phrase in our house as he confronted hurtful comments we directed at each other. Recently I was doing some 360 interviews for a coaching client and found the conversation back in this same phrase. The leader was referring to her office whiteboard and this acronym she has posted to help guide her communications.
T – is it true?
H – is it helpful?
I – is it inspirational?
N – is it necessary?
K – is it kind?
So the next time you have a communication that is particularly delicate or precise, consider these elements in your crafting. I wonder what might change in the message, the delivery, or your mindset.
Judy Hissong, CLM
Judy Hissong is the President of Nesso Strategies. A former law firm Chief Operating Officer, she helps firms become more profitable by advising leaders in strategic and leadership development challenges. Her mission is “world domination for Good.” By creating actionable, lightbulb moments that leaders want to share and spread, she intends to improve the world one person at a time. When she’s not speaking, training and consulting, Judy teaches quarterly online workshops and facilitates Leaders Lab, a monthly video conference that enables small groups of leaders to brainstorm strategies and solutions to work through common issues that keep firms stuck. Learn more at www.nessostrategies.com.
