The Leadership Test No One Talks About

One of the toughest responsibilities I’ve ever had as a leader was managing someone’s exit from the business.

It’s like taking off a plaster — it can’t be painless, but it can be done with care

It’s never “just a process.” Behind the policies and meetings, there’s a human being whose life is being impacted. Balancing compassion with fairness, clarity with empathy — it can feel like walking a tightrope.

Not long ago, a client reached out because they were facing exactly this. They didn’t need an ongoing coaching programme. What they needed was focused support in the moment: space to think through how to handle the conversation, how to communicate clearly and how to do it in a way that preserved dignity and respect.

Together, we worked on language that was both firm and compassionate and on practical steps to manage their own emotions so they could lead with integrity. Afterward, they shared how much lighter they felt knowing they’d done right by the individual and the team.

One tip I often share with leaders in this position: prepare as much for how you’ll listen as for what you’ll say. People want to feel heard, even in the hardest conversations.

Coaching doesn’t always have to be a long-term journey. Sometimes, a short, targeted session is exactly what helps a leader step into a challenging moment with confidence.

If you’re facing a situation like this and want a sounding board, I’d be glad to help,