I remember sitting in a team meeting, watching a familiar scene unfold. A project had fallen behind schedule, and tension was crackling in the air like static before a storm. In that moment, I witnessed two very different ways of speaking—one that slammed doors shut, and another that opened new possibilities. It was a stark reminder of how our words can either wall people off or create doorways to understanding.

Here are some examples to consider as you reframe call out language to call in language.

When Deadlines Are Missed

Call Out: "This is completely unacceptable. You knew the timeline. How could you let this happen again?"
Call In: "I notice we're behind where we hoped to be, and I imagine that's feeling heavy for you too. Can we explore what's making this timeline challenging? I want to make sure you have what you need to succeed."

When Someone Dominates Discussion

Call Out: "You always take over these meetings. Not everything is about your perspective."
Call In: "I appreciate your enthusiasm and insights. I'm also curious to hear from others who might have different experiences to share. Could we create space for more voices?

When Mistakes Happen

Call Out: "I can't believe you made such a basic error. This makes us all look bad."
Call In: "These kinds of challenges can be learning moments for all of us. Would you be open to walking through this together so we can understand what support might be helpful?"

When Cultural Missteps Occur

Call Out: "That comment was really inappropriate and offensive. You should know better."
Call In: "I know you care about creating an inclusive environment. Can we talk about how that comment might impact some of our colleagues? I'm learning about this too."

When Ideas Are Challenged

Call Out: "This approach clearly won't work. You haven't thought this through at all."
Call In: "I'm hearing some interesting possibilities in your proposal. I also have some concerns about certain aspects. Could we explore those together?"

When Change Is Needed

Call Out: "Your resistance to new processes is holding the whole team back."
Call In: "I sense there might be important reasons why the new process feels challenging. Would you share what concerns you? Your experience could help us create a better path forward."

Remember: Every word we speak is a doorway—either opening to possibility or closing to connection. Our language doesn't just carry meaning; it creates the spaces where others can either shrink away or step fully into their potential.

In my own journey, I've learned that the most powerful leadership moments come not from shutting doors through judgment, but from opening them through curiosity and care. When we invite people in rather than shutting them out, we're not just solving immediate problems—we're architecting spaces of trust and possibility.

The next time you feel the impulse to close a door through criticism, pause. Take a breath. Ask yourself:

What doorway could I open instead?
What room could I create for growth?
What possibility could I invite?

This is how we create cultures of belonging—one open door, one invitation, one possibility at a time. 🌈

Words as Doorways: Inviting Growth Through Leadership Language