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First -- I agree entirely on the issue of clear communication. At the same
time, however, I've seen a number of new managers (all of them women, for
whatever reason) struggling with this question of balancing positive and
negative feedback.
First, most women are taught to be nice, nonconfrontational...to soften the
blow of the negative with a positive comment. Then those that I've known as
new managers have typically preferred to offer *suggestions* for improvement
rather than direct requirements.
My suggestion for Candace would be a workshop or some personal development
reading specifically for women managers. There are plenty of resources out
there, and this is not an uncommon issue by any means.
Philomena Hoopes
Phila -at- vips -dot- com <mailto:Phila -at- vips -dot- com>
VIPS Healthcare Information Solutions, Inc.
(410) 832-8330 ext 845