Radical Candor Exercises for First-Time Managers
Designed for First-time engineering managers transitioning from technical individual contributor roles in fast-paced product teams to spark real collaboration and high-energy learning.
A 90-minute hybrid workshop for first-time managers in high-growth tech companies. Many participants struggle to move from 'just one of the team' to authority roles, and worry about appearing harsh or losing rapport when giving feedback. They are highly technical, skeptical of fluffy frameworks, and crave hands-on, practical strategies.
Feedback Detective Challenge
Kick off with a rapid-fire quiz: show three anonymized real feedback samples (e.g., 'Your report was late again' vs. 'I noticed your report was late. How can I help?') and ask participants to vote: Radical Candor, Ruinous Empathy, or Obnoxious Aggression. Reveal the correct answers and spark discussion about why.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
This taps innate curiosity—diagnosing feedback engages analytical minds and creates instant buy-in for the nuances of Radical Candor.
Candor Myth-Busting Carousel
Set up four stations (virtual breakout rooms or corners): each station tackles a common myth (‘Candor means being blunt’, ‘Candor damages relationships’, etc.). Groups rotate, debating and debunking with a real story or evidence. Facilitator wraps up with myth truths.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
Reveals misconceptions directly; rotating stations gets everyone engaged and exposes them to multiple perspectives quickly.
Silent Post-It Feedback Wall
Invite participants to write one piece of feedback (positive, constructive, or unclear) anonymously on a post-it or virtual sticky note. Collect and display all notes, then collectively sort them into categories: Radical Candor, unclear, or not constructive.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
Low-pressure, anonymous participation lets shy or skeptical managers safely experiment with feedback styles and see patterns emerge.
Candor Lightning Roleplays
Participants pair up and take turns practicing a 60-second Radical Candor feedback conversation, drawn from real-life situations (e.g., missed deadlines, code quality issues). After each round, partners swap roles and offer quick ‘candor check’ feedback on delivery.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
Roleplaying with time pressure builds energy and confidence; immediate partner feedback ensures learning sticks and feels real.
Manager Dilemma Hotseat
Present a real dilemma: ‘Your most talented engineer frequently misses stand-ups. You’re worried but don’t want to alienate them.’ Ask: What would you say? Participants brainstorm, then vote on best approach. Facilitator reveals a Radical Candor version and why it works.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
Anchors Radical Candor in tough, high-stakes moments; voting and discussion bring the dilemma alive and foster ownership.
Personal Candor Inventory
Close by asking each participant to privately reflect: When did I last give feedback that was both caring and direct? What stopped me from doing so sooner? Write a short commitment statement for future candor and share (if comfortable) in chat or aloud.
Tap to view the full activity.
Why this works
Active reflection and personal connection drive behavior change; commitment statements anchor learning for real action.
Sign up to unlock 3 more activities
Get the full pack, facilitation flow, and more ready-to-run ideas.