Effective communication is the lifeblood of successful leadership.
As management expert Peter Drucker once said, “The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.” This insight underscores the complexity of workplace communication and its critical role in leadership.
As we continue our Leadership Core Competencies Series, let’s consider six components of effective communication and how becoming a better communicator can enhance your strength as a leader.
1. Active Listening
Active listening forms the foundation of good communication. A study by Zenger Folkman found that leaders who score high on listening are perceived to be significantly more effective than those who don’t. Active listening involves fully concentrating on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. This approach not only prevents misunderstandings but also builds stronger relationships and increases employee engagement.
2. Clear and Concise Messaging
In a world where the average employee receives 121 emails per day, you, as a leader, must be able to cut through the noise. Strive to communicate complex ideas in simple terms, which will ensure your messages are easily understood and actionable. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings, time wasted seeking clarification, and frustration on the part of your team.
3. Transparency
Open and honest communication builds trust. According to Gallup data, only 13% of employees strongly agree that their leaders communicate effectively. As a leader, you can bridge this gap by being transparent and tackling difficult conversations head-on. As Brené Brown states in Dare to Lead, “Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.” Clear and candid communication creates a culture of openness where employees feel valued and informed, leading to higher levels of trust and commitment.
4. Non-verbal Communication
As we referenced earlier in the words of Peter Drucker, non-verbal communication often speaks louder than words. Research by Albert Mehrabian suggests that 55% of communication is body language, 38% is tone of voice, and only 7% is the actual words spoken. As a leader, be mindful to ensure your non-verbal cues align with your verbal messages in order to maintain credibility. This includes maintaining eye contact, using appropriate facial expressions, and managing gestures to reinforce your spoken words.
5. Constructive Feedback
Feedback is a two-way street. Effective leaders are skillful both in giving constructive feedback and actively seeking it and acting on it. A 2019 study by PwC found that 60% of employees want feedback on a daily or weekly basis. Regular, constructive feedback flowing between you and your team will not only help your employees grow but also demonstrate that you value their input for your growth. As Ken Blanchard notes, “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.”
6. Adaptable Style
Adapting communication styles is essential in diverse workplaces. Daniel Goleman, in his work on emotional intelligence, emphasizes the importance of social awareness and relationship management in leadership. Understanding and flexing to different personality types can significantly enhance communication effectiveness. This adaptability allows leaders to connect with team members personally, improving understanding and collaboration across diverse groups.
Developing strong communication skills is an ongoing process that requires practice, reflection, and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of the workplace. As John Powell aptly put it, “Communication works for those who work at it.”
By focusing on strengthening the communication competencies discussed here, you can create a culture of trust, engagement and high performance in your organization. If you’d like to be connected with more resources or coaching for yourself or your team, Traci and HPA are ready to support!
