Communicating Clearly

When we create a shared understanding between two or more people leading to improved performance and connection, we have communicated clearly. When we convey the message in a way that others understand, we not only inform – we motivate and transform. That is an essential role of every leader, including the emerging leader.

Communicating clearly and effectively starts with what we say to ourselves, and is followed by listening and influence. All too often, our communications are not clear, are missing information or are not empowering to those we are communicating with.

Christina Comaford, author of “Smart Tribes,” defines communication this way: “The meaning of communication is what the other party understood, not what you said, or intended to say, or really meant.” This is often the challenge for leaders around good communication.

Businesses must have appropriate organizational structures and technology in place to enable communication. However, on an everyday level, it is up to individual managers and employees to ensure they communicate effectively. There are many opportunities to communicate in a business environment, from the “Zoom-Room” to the “Board-Room.” Below are some of the reasons you might communicate in business today:

• Provide instructions
• Give feedback
• Share information
• Persuade someone
• Reinforce a policy or procedure
• Make a request or give a promise

Listening is at the heart of communicating clearly. We know this is a drum that is often beat around communication, and that is because it is tried and true. You will learn listening techniques that are highly effective, turning you into such a compelling listener that your ability to influence will scale throughout your organization – making you the most effective leader your people will know!

“Communication is a skill that you can learn. It’s like riding a bicycle or typing. If you’re willing to work at it, you can rapidly improve the quality of every part of your life.” – Brian Tracy

“The art of communication is the language of leadership.” – James Humes

Want to know more about Communicating Clearly? Stay tuned for Ralph Simone’s podcast with Cindy Masingill or contact us for information about our Emergent Leader course.