A few months ago, I challenged NuProfessionals to Join the Conversation at their organization. I emphasized the importance of knowing  your craft and being able to speak up when the discussion enters your realm. 

I also strongly believe in challenging your leadership to live up to their stated mission and values.  Ask why or how or when?  Hold them accountable for the kool-aid they make everyone else drink.

BUT, there is a time and a place for everything.  As a NuProfessional (or experienced professional, for that matter), there is a fine art to knowing when to speak up and when to shut up.  Case in point, TLNT’s article Speaking Your Mind May Feel Good, but Usually Turns Out Bad clearly depicts a recent slip up made by Army General Stanley McChrystal, former commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

McChrystal was relieved of his command  – yes, he was fired – on Wednesday by President Obama for disparaging comments he made that were published in Rolling Stone magazine.

“The article quoted General McChrystal and his aides speaking critically of nearly every member of the president’s national security team, “ The New York Times said , “dismissing Vice President (Joe) Biden as “Bite Me”; calling the national security adviser, Gen. James Jones, a “clown”; and disparaging other top officials.”

Imagine that! Someone, in that high and public of a position, not knowing when to stop talking.  Even President Obama encourages debate but not division.  Can’t we all just get along?

Look, it’s simple.  We are on the same team.  If you disagree, speak up and discuss it amongst yourselves.  Map out the evidence to support your position.  But when it comes time to talk about the issue outside of your group, be classy.  State your view, but don’t bad mouth.  Here is more from the same article:

Yes, speaking your mind may feel good, but it usually turns out bad.

I’m surprised that someone like Gen. McChrystal didn’t know that, because high ranking military officers rarely become high ranking officers unless they have mastered the art of speaking in public without saying anything controversial. In fact, McChrystal’s big mistake was that he probably didn’t spend much time getting counsel and guidance from the OTHER person in his organization who has undoubtedly mastered that same kind of skill set – his HR chief.

When in doubt, ask somebody, preferably someone with a level head that is not emotionally connected. The article’s author (John Hollon) refers to HR, but there are other team members can tell you if you are being a bone head.

Live and learn from other’s mistakes.  Don’t make the same costly mistake.

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