Most leaders think their feedback is helping, but more often than not, it misses the mark. Vague comments, personal attacks, and a lack of follow-up erode trust and weaken team morale. In this article, Michael Forras, retired Marine Sergeant Major and former U.S. Diplomat, introduces the CLEAR Framework, a practical, five-step system for giving feedback that creates clarity, builds trust, and drives lasting growth. Drawing on over 20 years of leading in combat zones, embassies, and boardrooms, he shows how leaders can transform feedback from a source of tension into a culture of resolution.

Emotional intelligence (EI) is more than a leadership buzzword—it’s the secret sauce for effective management and team success. By cultivating self-awareness, empathy, and strong communication, leaders can foster innovation, resilience, and engagement within their teams. In leadership, it’s not just about what’s said but understanding what isn’t.