Effective leadership communication is not about saying more — it’s about being understood.
Whether you are a School Head, a CEO signing off your annual letter to shareholders, Chair of a charity thanking donors or perhaps a grandparent corralling children at a soft play party, successfully communicating as a leader will define your outcome.
A Lesson in Leadership Communication
Does Mary Berry add brown shrimp to her Haddock Feast? If yes, I can go home via Waitrose…and so starts the wanderings of my mind during the “Welcome to Our School” address by the Head at the Open Morning I am attending with my daughter.
Half an hour later, I am still sitting in the Assembly Hall, wondering whether the Head’s encouraging comments about players of all abilities will see me join the Netball Team, or whether this was meant for the future students. “Phenomenal” has been repeated, well, a phenomenal number of times! I wonder how many parents will stay for Danish pastries afterwards.
Five of the Worst Communication Mistakes
1. Broadcasting Instead of Creating Dialogue
Broadcasting. Think dialogue, not monologue! Focus on who you are addressing, why and where. Unless you are able to listen and engage on a personal level, with a sharp awareness of the context of your communication, your message risks being lost in a boring broadcast black hole.
2. Relying Too Heavily on Messaging
Before fidgeting with your phone or picking up your Montblanc and Moleskine, consider what is the most impactful way of getting your message across. Messaging may seem the easiest option, but with the average person receiving over 120 emails every day, how will your message stand out and be read?
3. Information Overload
Take inspiration from Sir Winston Churchill and keep your message concise and powerful. Now, in the age of constant connectivity, it has never been more important to avoid information-overload. Keep it brief and to the point.
4. Trying Too Hard to Sound Relatable
Or “getting down with the kidz”: when was the last time I used this phrase? Never! This is not my voice. Whatever your age or culture, stay true to your own voice and values. Mimicking the language of a younger (or older) generation in an attempt to win their trust usually just serves to exaggerate differences. Be authentic and use your own words and ways to convey your message.
5. Being Over-Familiar
There is rarely a downside to being too formal, but there is frequently a problem with being over familiar. Traditionally, a letter should begin, “Dear” and emails are no different. If in doubt, opt for “Dear” and “Kind regards” over “Hi” and “Cheers” — and take care over the kisses!
Finally, for those readers who are interested in creating a Haddock Feast – the answer is:
Mary says two 50g pots of brown shrimp will serve four!
If you would like expert, professional support so that you communicate with clarity and confidence, The Works Counsel can help. Get in touch to discuss how thoughtful, legally sound communication can strengthen your impact.
Ready to communicate like a leader
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