06/10/2026
Feedback needs trust to land.
We can teach leaders frameworks for giving feedback. We can give them scripts, models and conversation starters. But no feedback model can replace one thing: Trust. Without trust, feedback can quickly feel like criticism.
When trust is present, even a difficult conversation can become an opportunity for reflection, learning and growth.
So before asking, “How should I give this feedback?” perhaps we should ask:
“What have I done to build the relationship that will allow this feedback to be heard?”
Leadership isn't only about having courageous conversations. It is about building the trust that makes those conversations possible.