How to write up a top performer like a leader, not a manager

July 21, 2025

It’s Tactical Tuesday!

Here is the Thought, Tip, and Tool of the week...

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The Thought

Did you know... “Leaders who communicate feedback with respect and care can increase loyalty from their top performers by 50%,” says Zenger & Folkman. Top performers may not always meet the mark, but they need leadership, not just praise.

Quote: "Leadership is not about being the best. It’s about making everyone else better." – Unknown

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The Tip

Remember to… Offer feedback as a partnership, not a punishment. Top performers thrive when given ownership of their growth. Ask questions like, “What do you think is contributing to this?” and, “How can we solve this together?” Approach it as a collaboration, not a confrontation.

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The Tool

Short Video: Watch this short video on how to hold a top performer accountable like a leader. Find out how to make feedback a conversation that promotes ownership and development, not just correction.

Watch the viral video on TikTok

Watch this video & read the popular post on LinkedIn (includes 11 ways to write up a top performer like a leader, not a manager)

Or watch other CLA videos here: YouTube, Facebook, Instagram

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Leadership Question of the week…

Here is the top question this week from our 200+ Leadership Questions (part of our Complete Leader Package). Don’t have these? Get instant access here.

❓How do you feel about the way we give and receive feedback?

❓What’s worked well for you in the past?

❓How can we make it even better?

Activity of the week…

Here is the top activity this week from our 52 Team Meeting Activity Cards. Don’t have these download? Get your physical copy here OR a printable version as part of the Complete Leader Package.

Watch the activity description of the “POST IT TALK”

Want more? Instantly download these ready-to-use tools.

Spark dialogue with your team.

Ignite engagement.

These activities and questions will make your leadership work easier in 2025!

-> Digital download: Get instant access to the most popular Complete Leader Package. Leaders love having over 200 questions for 1:1s, team meetings, and leadership meetings.

Plus, 52 team meeting activity cards so you’ll never have to plan another activity again!

-> Want the team meeting activity cards in a box? Pre-order them now. Limited available. Order now!

-> New leader? Grab the NEW LEADER Bundle here and get both the Complete Leader Package and Activity Cards Box, plus a bonus program: 52 Leadership Skills to unlock your leadership potential this year. Over 50% off right now: Learn more.

COMING SOON: Our People Builder platform where you can create customized 1:1s and team meeting agendas, along with track the growth and development of your people all in one place. You can even import any leadership questions or team activities you’ve purchased so you can mix and match and customize your own 1:1s and team meetings. Reply PEOPLE BUILDER if you’d like to be part of our FREE pilot group.

Thank you for being a leader out there!

-Dwight

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