Dangerous Conversations

dodging traffic on this one

Now is a time for dangerous conversations.

We're used to and well practised in the other sort, where we think we're being adventurous and pushing boundaries, even though we know there is a very clear boundary. We mustn't upset the client, the boss, or those around us, even though we know the status quo needs challenging in our hearts. As professionals skilled at what we do, the danger is we stay quiet. But, equally, the client, boss, peer group knows what needs challenging as well as we do.

We reach a fork in the road. Down one fork lies safe, survival, and good enough leading to safe progress and a reliable career. Down the other lies what we see and believe is in the best interests of the client or our own company at the risk of blowing up our career, such as it is. It is a matter of integrity. We can either look good or feel good.

It's no small matter. Mortgages, education loans, local standing, promotion - all are powerful reasons to go down the "look good"…