Chapter 10: Leadership Communication Skills

Dividing a large message into smaller, easily digestible parts, often 3 key points.

Saying the same thing multiple times in different ways.

Saying the same thing over and over again.

Good communication involves both repetition and redundancy.

Repeating an argument can be effective for persuasion, especially if the argument is strong.

There is a specific amount of repetition, beyond which the effectiveness starts decreasing.

People are more likely to accept what they hear if it is repeated.

Communicating a message in a clear and concise manner. The key message should be consistently communicated in the same form.

Repeating a message in different ways to ensure understanding.

Delivering messages frequently to keep everyone informed and engaged.

Avoiding complex language and using clear, simple words instead.

Varying the methods of communication, such as emails, videos, meetings, or even face-to-face conversations.

Understanding when to use repetition and when to avoid it, as too much repetition can be counterproductive.

Using different mediums like videos, data, or examples to reinforce a message.

Communicating proactively before issues arise, rather than waiting for problems to occur.

Balancing frequent communication with the need to avoid overwhelming or distracting employees.

Using multiple communication channels to deliver a message, such as face-to-face meetings, social media, and podcasts, increasing the likelihood that the message will be received and understood.

A type of communication that allows for immediate feedback and adjustments, like a conversation.

A type of communication with limited feedback and no real-time adjustments, like an email.

Matching the appropriate communication medium to the nature and complexity of the message. A complex message may require face-to-face discussion, while a simple announcement can be communicated through a memo.

The effect of a communication medium based on its symbolic meaning in the context of the organization. A CEO stepping into a meeting carries a different impact than a regular employee.

The level of interaction and feedback involved in communication. Effective communication is interactive, involving both speaking and listening.

The tendency for leaders to focus more on delivering information than actively listening and responding to their team's questions.

Creating easily accessible forums where employees can ask questions and receive direct responses from leadership.

Front-line leaders should be informed about company policies and strategic initiatives early on, before their subordinates.

When communication from different leaders about the same issue contradicts each other, it creates confusion and distrust.

Rumors spread when there is a lack of clear and consistent information, making it hard for people to understand the truth.

Leaders can combat rumors by providing consistent and clear messages about important issues, ensuring everyone hears the same information.

Openly addressing problems and challenges facing the organization builds trust and transparency.

When leaders are honest and upfront about themselves and the organization, it strengthens relationships and fosters trust.

Sharing information about problems and challenges openly can help people understand the situation better and build trust.

Effective communication is about being clear, consistent, honest, and transparent.

Leaders today should be transparent and open about challenges and problems they face, not just successes.

Effective communication involves giving context and answering questions, even if they seem irrelevant to an employee's job.

Employees today expect to be informed about company values and their leader's stance on social and political issues.

Symbols within an organization communicate more effectively than words alone. This can include company culture, leadership actions, and even the physical environment.

Leaders need to be aware of how their words and actions are perceived by others. Their communication can sometimes be interpreted more strongly than intended.

Effective leadership communication is about providing context so employees understand the 'little picture' (individual tasks) and the 'big picture' (organization's goals and challenges).

Leaders must be strategic in their communication, considering the impact of their words and actions. Communication should be purposeful and valuable for the organization.

Employees feel entitled to know about relevant information affecting their work. Leaders should avoid using the 'need to know' or 'above your pay grade' arguments.

Leaders should be mindful that even casual conversations can have a significant impact, as people often interpret their words and actions deeply.

Leaders must be intentional in their communication, considering not only what they say but also how they say it, including nonverbal cues and context.

Communication is essential for effective leadership, and leaders should treat it with the utmost importance, understanding its impact on their team and organization.