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Why Communication Is So Important for Leaders | CCL

CCL

5 Critical Tips for Leaders to Communicate More Effectively

1. Communicate relentlessly.

Communicate information, thoughts, and ideas clearly — and frequently — in different media. Keep processes open and transparent, and find ways to help smooth the path of communication for your team or organization. Shed all traces of detachment and arrogance, and take the time to talk to your people.

2. Simplify and be direct.

Say what you mean. Be direct. Don’t hide behind complexity or pile on a ton of information. Direct communication can be the most important type of communication. This is even more important when communicating in a virtual setting.

3. Listen and encourage input.

Pause. Be okay with silence. Encourage the other person to offer ideas and solutions before you give yours. Do 80% of the listening and 20% of the talking. And showing interest in, and respect for, your colleagues will help you make the emotional connection that’s so important for effective leadership. Let team members know they are valuable, show empathy, and create psychological safety so people feel comfortable speaking up. It will show those you lead that you care about both them and the organization.

4. Illustrate through stories.

When you tell a good story, you give life to a vision, goal, or objective. Telling good stories creates trust, captures hearts and minds, and serves as a reminder of the vision. Plus, people find it easier to repeat a story or refer to an image or quote than to talk about a mission statement, strategy document, or project plan. This is key when communicating the vision.

5. Affirm with actions.

While effective leaders master the art and craft of language, speaking clearly, and presenting logical and compelling arguments, skilled leaders also know that communication goes beyond words. If people hear one thing from you and see another, your credibility is shot. People need to trust you. Your behavior and actions communicate a world of information — so be clear on the messages you send even when you aren’t saying anything.

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Leaders Communicate With Actions and Attitude, Too

At a very basic level, communication is the transmission of information between a sender and a receiver. But realize that your attitude and actions give additional meaning to your spoken and written messages. Your behavior gives people information about your disposition, opinion, or mood — regardless of the words you speak.

Communication can disclose the leader’s authenticity, sincerity, and virtually every other aspect of a leader’s character. When a leader is all talk and no substance, people see right through the official message.

Improve Communication Among Leaders at Your Organization

Today’s leaders need the ability to communicate effectively and address complex challenges in new and innovative ways. Build the skills needed by partnering with us to craft a customized learning journey for your organization using our research-backed topic modules.

Available leadership topics include Leadership & Communication, Emotional Intelligence & Empathy, Influencing Skills, Leading Through Change, Listening to Understand, Psychological Safety & Trust, and more.

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So what does a leader’s communication style say about their character?

Consider what effective leaders do when they communicate. They:

Handle resistant audiences well;
Choose effective tactics to influence people;
Listen to individuals from all levels of the organization;
Encourage direct and open discussion;
Initiate difficult, but needed conversations;
Are clear about expectations and ask good questions; and
Involve others before developing a plan of action.

So, to be more effective in communication, think not only about your words, but also about your attitude and actions, too. It will make a huge difference to your people — and your organization.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Effective communication for leaders is essential. Partner with us to craft a customized learning journey for your team using our research-backed modules. Available leadership topics include Authenticity, Communication & Leadership, Feedback That Works, Emotional Intelligence, Influence, Listening to Understand, Psychological Safety, and more.

Or, build coaching skills across your team and scale a culture of open communication and feedback across your entire organization.