From 'Calling Out' to 'Calling Forward': A Leadership Lesson from South Africa

South African Setting for Australian Coach's Leadership Advice Australian business coach Fiona Morris, while in South Africa, recently shared a powerful leadership lesson in a short video. Her message focuses on the importance of constructive criticism. Instead of publicly criticizing or 'calling out' individuals, she promotes a supportive approach of 'calling people forward'. "Calling people out didn't build them up; it broke them down," Morris explains in the video. She notes that this creates fear, shame, and distance. Instead, she advocates for a more thoughtful and empathetic approach, focusing on encouragement and support. Morris contrasts the reactive nature of 'calling out' with the reflective approach of 'calling forward'. She states that calling forward is an invitation, not an accusation, and allows individuals to become better versions of themselves. The video has garnered significant attention online, highlighting the universal relevance of Morris's message. This approach to feedback resonates with many leaders and individuals seeking to improve their communication skills. Morris's experience and insights offer a valuable lesson for fostering positive relationships and promoting growth.