Running a Carefrontation workshop isn’t just about presenting slides or reviewing the Carefrontation framework with new terminology. It’s about helping teams practice the skill of giving honest, direct feedback while showing genuine care, and actually feeling comfortable doing it. If you're planning or leading a Carefrontation session, here are some practical tips to ensure it resonates and drives real change.
1. Set the Tone Early
Start with intention. Reinforce that Carefrontation is about growth, not gotchas. Create an environment where participants know this isn’t about calling people out. I should be about building each other up through accountability and compassion. Share a personal story of when feedback helped you grow (or when the absence of feedback held you back). That vulnerability opens the door for others to do the same.
2. Prioritize Practice, Not Just Theory
You can’t read your way into being better at feedback because you have to practice. Include role-playing exercises, teachbacks, and live discussion prompts that allow people to try, fumble, and adjust. The more diverse your exercise (things like giving feedback to a peer, responding to a tough comment, or reflecting on past feedback received) the more equipped your team becomes. Even a 10-minute paired roleplay can have more impact than 30 minutes of presentation.
3. Embrace the Debrief
A well-facilitated debrief turns awkward or imperfect moments into learning gold. Ask questions like “What felt natural? What felt hard?” or “What would you do differently next time?” Use this moment to normalize the discomfort that often comes with early practice. Be sure to celebrate the effort, not just the outcome. Carefrontation is a long game, and progress often starts in the messy middle.
4. Leave with a Plan
No one should walk away wondering “now what?” End your session by having participants write down one Carefrontation they plan to have in the next week, then encourage accountability check-ins later. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s movement and growth. Real impact comes when the workshop is a spark, not a stand-alone event.
Running a Carefrontation workshop is one of the most meaningful ways you can invest in team culture and performance. It’s not always easy but when done with care and clarity, it sticks. Have you led one before? Thinking about it? Share your favorite tactics, or what you're nervous about, in the comments.
