Poor Communication from Leaders can be “Hurtful”

When you are building trust as a leader, you need to make sure your communication is both complete and accurate.

Great leaders tend to be exceptional communicators. It is important to note that a great communicator does not necessarily equal an eloquent speaker. In fact, highly communicative leaders spend much more time engaged in interpersonal situations than public speaking.

The best communicators are not only skilled at acquiring information while communicating, they are also accomplished at conveying ideas, aligning expectations, inspiring action, and elevating their vision.

When speaking with others they do more than attempt to convey ideas.  Proficient leaders communicate in a way that personally bonds their message to their listeners’ emotions and aspirations. They understand that if their message doesn’t reach the passions and desires of their audience it is unlikely to be understood, much less embraced and pursued.

Skilled communicators possess an amplified sense of situational and contextual awareness. They are great listeners and skilled at reading others through identifying attitudes, values, feelings, passions, and motivations of those they are communicating with. They then adapt their message to those feelings.

There are four simple principles you can adopt in your communication as a leader to avoid the results of this video.

1. Involved leaders communicate by listening to their employees more than speaking to them. Listening allows you to better understand their viewpoints and context—as well as shows them they matter to you.

2.  As the sender, take responsibility for how your message is received. It is important to verify your message has been properly heard and understood by your audience. Make sure they have opportunities to ask questions after they’ve had a chance to process and internalize what has been shared.

3. Never assume anything. Many people fall into the trap that co-workers, colleagues, and business associates have similar enough backgrounds to relate to the thoughts, feelings and ideas being communicated.

4. Skilled leaders communicate in practical rather than theoretical terms. When inspiring people to act, they require a message that is easy to apply. Use examples and specifics that are easy for all your audience to comprehend and put into practice.