3 Ways Managers Can Communicate More Effectively
Photo by fauxels
Strong communication skills are important for any leader to master. Great communication skills will ensure employees are on the same page, boost morale and will create successful team dynamics which result in improved organizational productivity and success.
Enhance your speaking style by using these three approaches.
Simplify Your Word Choice
Be aware that your teams are carrying mental loads you can not see. Thus, choose simple language over more complicated language to communicate ideas and processes.
Daniel Kahnenman argues "that persuasive speakers and writers do everything they can to reduce "cognitive strain." Steer clear of jargon, complex language or vague phrases in order to reduce confusion. Focus on concrete, clear and simple language to communicate urgency and inspire action.
Use Figurative Language
Figurative language helps leaders make abstract or complicated ideas concrete for their audience. Leadership coaching company, Act, suggests "Metaphors condense information, making things more tangible and easier to work with. Help your audience connect the new idea to something they are already familiar with through a metaphor (i.e. time is money, reach for the low hanging fruit).
Be Mission Oriented
A company's mission is a brief statement that explains the purpose of the company and the reason the company exists. Leaders should communicate that mission frequently across multiple channels (email, meeting agendas, during presentations, etc) and use that mission as a driver for decision-making. Repeating the mission and having it displayed helps teams to internalize the mission, so that it becomes a mantra to work by. In "Engaging Employees in Purpose, Mission and Values Through Strategic Communication," Lisa Hannun explains, "Employees are significantly more motivated and passionate when they work for organizations that demonstrate and communicate the value they deliver to the world or their stakeholders."