Fourth Quarter 2015– Issue 22
Note from Coach Mario– At the End of the Day- “Leaders Communicate”
It’s all about communications! A critical pillar in a Leader’s competencies is setting a vision, a direction for the organization. But it only “comes alive” when it is communicated effectively to the appropriate audience. Effective communication occurs frequently and throughout, at all levels, in an organization. It is clear, concise and connecting to the audience. It is delivered in a consistent manner not just once but constantly. It answers the basic vision question from the audience, “Where are you taking me?” So is it better to over or under communicate? To answer this question, take a look at where the breakdown in an effort occur. Most often the breakdown is because there was a lack of or incomplete communication. I have seen where an organization doesn’t really know or understand the expectations because they have not been communicated, either effectively or at all by the leadership. Interestingly, often it is because the leader or leaders are uncomfortable speaking in front of a crowd or lack the structure or order in their management style. Getting everyone on the same page and moving in the same direction is undoubtedly the role of a leader and communication is the leader’s tool. Much like any other tool, if it is not used or not used correctly or to its full potential, the results achieved will not be desired. Communication used effectively is inspirational and motivational!
When is communication NOT inspirational, motivational or underutilized? Amazing it most often occurs with those nearest to each other. The boss and the direct report, for example. Those are the times when the boss”shortchanges” communications with his/her direct reports. I recall a situation when the boss would not even return the calls of the employee. Is this respectful? Is that inspiring or motivating (positively) the employee? Is this likely to get the admiration from the employee? Is this creating a trusting environment? Obviously not. But shortchanging communications happens more than you think.
Communication occurs in a number of ways, verbal, body language, tone of voice. The leader must be in tune with their words, gestures, voice frequency ( too much is likely rambling) and volume (is it too loud or too soft) in their communications. It is important for the leader to maintain composure when communicating.
Exhibition and Nurturance are two behavioral traits that underlie a leader’s ability to communicate. Exhibition is the comfort in stepping out and communicating and Nurturance is empathizing with the audience in a manner that intrinsically connects with them. The following competencies are critical in communicating effectively:
1. Active Listening
2. Powerful Questions
3. Direct Communications
When the leader actively listens, he/she is focused completely on what the person speaking is saying and is not saying, understands the meaning of what is being said from the person’s point of view and supports the person’s self-expression.
When the leader asks powerful questions, he/she asks questions that reveal the information needed for maximum benefit to the relationship with the other person. To the person being asked, it can be intellectually stimulating when done with respect and honest curiosity.
When the leader is direct, he/she uses language that is clear, concise and articulated in a way that has the greatest favorable impact on the other person.
So as the Leader communicates effectively, he/she is able to answer with confidence the vision question, “Where are you taking me?” He/she has the trust and respect of the direct reports. The leader is able to achieve this because he/she truly values, understands and cares about people. Effective communications does not shortchange and is a “two-way street.” Does your communications “come alive” with others?
—Mario Flores
Mario Flores. All Rights Reserved. No part of these materials may be reproduced in any form without written permission.
