"Here's What I Need From You" - Four Phrases Leaders Need to Know (Part 2)

Have you ever felt confused about what your boss wanted you to do? Perhaps you were navigating a new project or company-wide initiative and wondered, what is my role to play?  Today, I’m going to teach you a high-impact phrase that will ensure your team never feels that way after talking to you: “Here’s what I need from you.” If you get comfortable using it, I know that you will eliminate confusion, drive results, and empower your team to act with confidence.

Why should you say, “Here’s what I need from you?”

One of the most significant sources of frustration on any team is unclear expectations. People don’t know what “good” looks like, deadlines are fuzzy, and roles are assumed but never confirmed. As a result, failure is inevitable. The team’s morale suffers because the expectations are not clear. By saying, “Here’s what I need from you,” you will ensure your team receives adequate communication. You can bring clarity without coming across as harsh or micromanaging. The clearer you are upfront, the fewer corrections you need later.

Q: Have you ever worked for a leader who struggled to give clear instructions? What was the impact on you? On the team? How did you and the rest of the team try to compensate?

Use this phrase when:

• Delegating responsibility

• Assigning ownership

• Redirecting performance

• Recalibrating after something falls short

Example: Let’s say a team member is circling a task but not taking ownership of it. Try saying, “You’ve got some great ideas here. Here’s what I need from you. Take point on this project and have an outline ready by Friday.” Now, there is no question of who is doing what by when.

Tips for implementation:

• After you say, “Here’s what I need from you,” pause and let it land. Then ask: “Is that clear?” or “Is there anything I can clarify?” Following up creates space for questions from your employees and ensures you are truly aligned.

• Pay attention to your tone. The way you say this matters. You’re not giving an order; you’re creating clarity. As you speak, do so with a confident, calm tone.

Q: Have you ever worked with a leader who used this technique unsuccessfully? What would have helped them use it better?

Application Activities:

1. Ask your team to rate the clarity of your instructions on a scale of one to ten. Ask how often they are left wondering who is in charge of what or debriefing with other team members to try to figure it out on their own. This information will help you understand how your current habits are affecting your team and the impact that implementing this phrase could make.

2. This is a significant step to take both during meetings and your regular after-meeting recaps. Using it for both real-time decision-making and individual follow-up will allow for additional clarity as new information is discovered. Don’t be afraid of seeming repetitive. Remember that clarity is one of the best gifts you can give your team!