I’m halfway through Build by Tony Fadell (who led the teams behind the iPod, iPhone, and Nest) and it’s easily one of the most practical books I’ve read on leadership and building products (whence why I’m posting about it!).

One lesson that really stuck with me is that feedback isn’t about being nice or harsh, it’s about being clear.

I’ll admit, I’ve definitely softened feedback in the past to avoid awkwardness. But as Fadell points out, unclear or sugar-coated feedback doesn’t actually help anyone. If people don’t know what’s really expected, they can’t grow.

That’s something I’m working on. Being clear without being unkind.

Clarity + context > comfort.

If you work in tech, management, or leadership, I’d really recommend this book. It’s packed with lessons that apply far, far beyond product development.