The Genshai Method: The #1 Strategy to Have Hard Conversations as a Leader

As a sales leader, one of the greatest challenges we face isn’t hitting quotas or building systems—it’s having the conversations we don’t want to have.

You know the ones.

The tough, uncomfortable, “I’d rather do anything else right now” kind of conversations. But here’s the truth: the way you handle these moments defines your influence, your leadership, and ultimately, your legacy. And there’s one powerful principle I’ve used repeatedly—whether I was leading a sales team of 12 or scaling an organization to 2,000+ reps—and I call it the Genshai Method.


What Is the Genshai Method?

“Genshai” is an ancient Hindi word that means:
“Never treat another person in a manner that would make them feel small.”

Let that sink in for a second.

This one concept has transformed the way I lead. And if applied, it will change everything for you, too. The goal? Speak the truth. Lead strongly. But never diminish.

Why Most Leaders Fail at Hard Conversations

Too often, we avoid giving honest feedback because we don’t want to hurt feelings or make things awkward. But when we dodge the hard conversation, we’re not protecting them—we’re protecting ourselves.

That’s not leadership. That’s selfishness.

If you’re thinking, “I don’t want them to feel small…” then you’re already on the right path. But remember: Genshai isn’t about sugarcoating. It’s about challenging without crushing.

 

The Permission to Challenge

Here’s your power move:
💬 “Do I have your permission to challenge you?” This one sentence disarms defensiveness and opens the door to meaningful, growth-oriented conversation.

From that foundation, you can speak the hard truth—with honor. With dignity. With clarity.

Want to Master This?

If you’re serious about building a culture of accountability, trust, and explosive growth… then mastering “soft like a brick” conversations isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Inside Module 6 of my Sellership System Masterclass, I teach the exact strategies I use to:

  • Navigate hard conversations without creating resentment
  • Build unshakable trust with team members
  • Develop loyalty that lasts year after year

 

Because leadership isn’t about being liked. It’s about being respected and trusted.

 

Final Thought

If you want to be the kind of leader people run to—not from—then start living Genshai.
Be soft like a brick. And don’t just learn this. Live it.

 

👉 Ready to level up your leadership? Join the Sellership Masterclass today

 

Make it a great day!
– Ben Ward

Picture of Ben Ward

Ben Ward

The #1 best selling author of “Sellership:” and founder of “Forward Leadership”

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