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President Barack Obama gathered many plaudits last week for his face-to-face Q&A with Republican leaders last week. In the Harvard Business Review, John Baldoni argues that by doing this “the President, whether you like or dislike him, provided a template for leaders to use when they need to face critics.” He draws seven lessons for leaders facing criticism.

  • Show up
  • Be open
  • Be cool
  • Acknowledge your shortcomings
  • Criticize gently
  • Smile frequently
  • Leave them wanting more

What can Pastors facing criticism learn from this advice? What would you add/subtract? I would add: Take pre-emptive action. Don’t wait until a disaster (e.g. Massachusetts) strikes that leaves you with no choice but to face your critics.