8 Most Uncomfortable Conversations You'll Have as an Entrepreneur

"That was inappropriate."

Addressing inappropriate behavior can be sticky to navigate. There are things that can and can't be said and done, or you may risk a lawsuit. Be sure you've checked into any legality before you discuss such matters. Subjugate emotions and feelings, keep to the facts, and clearly define what is appropriate, so it's clear next time.

"We/You/I failed."

Everybody makes mistakes, and everybody misses the mark sometimes, even with the best planning and effort. And that can include your own failures on the job. Identify what went wrong, learn from it, and quickly move to the solution you have in mind. Failure is inevitable--put the focus on how you can recover from it.

"No."

Teams, partners, vendors, and investors will constantly ask permission--to take time off, to make a move, to incorporate ideas. Get accustomed to saying no because you'll do it often. At Simple Mills, I'm open to asks across the organization--and if the answer is no, I share why. Most of the time, there's a good reason you've declined a request. It can help others to understand when you give context.

"You're fired."

Letting go of employees, vendors, partners, suppliers--the list can be endless at any company. It can be due to performance, or it might be that you need to cut back somewhere. Hit these discussions early on. Don't wait until the end of the day, call, week, etc. Be direct, be honest, and keep it simple. Allow for questions and dialogue.

"You're not getting the promotion/bonus/position."

This talk is usually harder when you're holding it with an employee, or someone who has a relationship with you or your company. You may face disappointment, anger, or upset. It can be easy to shrink back or overly apologize. Control your fears or feelings, lay out the facts, and be prepared in advance for how you'll handle any reaction.

"We're cutting back."

Budget cutbacks and changes are not uncommon in business. But trimming costs or cutting spending can be terrifying for employees, partners, and others in your organization. You don't need to launch these conversations with immense detail or reasoning. Simply articulate what you have planned, and what it means for various parties involved. Be prepared to answer questions and address concerns.

"We're making a leadership/management/department change."

Change happens, particularly in the first few years of your business. It can mean discomfort and shifting priorities. It may require new processes and protocols, or different roles and job duties. Involve people where and when it makes sense--your senior leadership team may get first notice, before a formal plan is in place. Alert others in your company as you're ready--but before the changes are made.

"I'm sorry."

Admitting you're wrong can feel--and leave you--vulnerable. You might fear losing your position of authority and leadership, or that you're enabling employees, investors, etc., to pile up against you. On the contrary, it can demonstrate solid leadership to know when you should apologize--and do it. Admit you're wrong, move on.