Is there a need for effective communication at the workplace? Of course, as a leader, you must ensure your communication skills are effective when leading teams.
The quote above, attributed to the famous Irish playwright; George Bernard Shaw underscores the often-overlooked pitfall of effective communication. The lack of effective communication has significant implications for interpersonal, and organisational communications.
Being a leader, you are responsible for enhancing effective communication by identifying suitable mechanics to convey intention and purpose of the organisation. It is also a means of directing and controlling organisational functions. Either with email, snail mail or verbal and non-verbal cues, it would be best to harness the way you communicate between the team and the organisation at large. Without effective communication, there is no means of achieving organisational objectives.
Improved communication will create a good rapport with groups, organisations, and even globally. As you purpose to inspire your teams, be ready to identify unique techniques of communication to attract customers, teams, and other influencers.
Tips for improving leadership communication.
1.Affirm with actions.
Most influential leaders master the craft of language, speak clearly, have compelling arguments, and desirably present logical ideas. As a leader, you must understand the need to win trust from the teams. How can you win trust among the team? Through consistent behavior and communication, you communicate to the world. You must ensure that your words and the message conveyed match your actions and efforts to inspire the team.
2.Demonstrate through Stories.
As a leader, do you have compelling vision stories? Being a leader, you must shape your team’s motives through stories that inspire them and help them work with determination. It would help if you learned to create fun where necessary, tell exciting and inspiring stories. You must ensure your stories align the vision, concerns, and goals to the team and organization. If you want to win trust, capture attention, heart, and mind, then be a leader of compelling stories. As much as you consider reports, project plans, and quotes, ensure stories are part of your communication that will be memorable and inspire the team since it sinks deep in their mind.
3.Communicate relentlessly.
At times leaders find it hard to face their team boldly and share their views; in such a situation, what can you do to win their trust? You must identify appropriate forums/channels and convey your message to your team or organization. It would help if you learned to avoid detachment and arrogance. Plan on your frequency and clarity when communicating with your team.
4.Actively listen and encourage input.
Being a leader doesn’t mean you are perfect in your communication and decision. Why should you develop listening skills? Do you think as a leader you need to pause or even maintain silence? Of course, you must prioritize your team, listen to their opinions and suggestions as you listen to them keenly. Ask them what might be the solution to the challenges that the organization is experiencing. As a leader, don’t occupy the conversation; A rule of thumb demands that you talk 20% and allow your team to settle the remaining 80% percent. Try to show interest and applaud the team for their suggestions.
Sometimes you may realize the comments are not suggestive; you must be wise enough not to reject but encourage them to give more alternatives until you find a prompt solution. Do you value your team? this can be felt when they are given a chance to speak and share their opinions. You must practice empathy and create psychological safety for the team.
5.Simplicity and be direct.
Why should leaders demonstrate simplicity in their communication? What are the impacts of clarity? Definitely, the use of ambiguous and complex words will make your team stare at you or fail to understand the purpose of the meeting. Ensure you clearly state your point during the process of communication. Direct communication is essential, both virtual and physical, and is timesaving to avoid repetition and further explanation.
6.Reach Out for Help
One can ask if leaders need to seek help before making a decision. What is your take as a leader? Leaders are human beings and are not protected from making poor decisions. To be influential and dynamic, one should focus on strategic issues that will help promote teamwork and attain goals at the workplace. If you are a leader or plan to be a leader, learn to put your ego aside and seek guidance in critical issues which will brand you incapable but somewhat irresponsible.
As a leader, you need to learn and practice good communication skills for your organization to be functional, productive and prevent toxicity among the team. As much as you try to initiate good communication skills, be ready to make sacrifices and be patient.
Practice. Practice. Practice.
Effective communication takes practice. Successful leaders give themselves time to master this art and so can you!
