I have taught thousands of leaders how to communicate more effectively. Whether I was teaching a group of leaders Influencing Skills, Conflict Resolution or Leadership Development, there are 5 key skills that are universal.
1. Active Listening
“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” — Stephen R. Covey
Active listening is one of the most fundamental ways a leader builds trust and psychological safety. When people feel like what they say matters, they are more likely to express their true opinions, share underlying issues and build a stronger sense of loyalty.
2. Test Assumptions
We often believe we know someone else so well that we can predict their actions and underlying motivations. While it may seem like empathy or understanding, the reality is that this is an assumption or story about the other person. Without checking the actual facts, the danger is that a leader takes action based on faulty assumptions.
3. Powerful Inquiry
Effective leaders know how to employ the right types of questions at the right time. For example, leaders might use close-ended questions for clarity and open-ended questions to invite deeper thinking. They understand that the question “why” should be used sparingly and that there is a hierarchy of powerful questions.
4. Emotional Intelligence
“The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn’t being said.” — Peter Drucker
Emotional intelligence is the ability to perceive, interpret, and respond to one’s own emotions and the emotions of others. In communication, this means being attuned to the emotional undercurrents of conversations and adjusting your approach accordingly.
Nonverbals play a critical part in how we communicate. Albert Mehrabian’s model of Trust and Believability helps leaders become more aware of how they communicate, as well as increasing their awareness of others.
5. Feedback and Constructive Conflict
Leaders who avoid having hard conversations inadvertently limit themselves and their teams. As difficult as it is to speak tough truths, it strengthens relationships and gives team members the ability to grow and improve. Likewise, being open to receiving feedback demonstrates humility and models commitment to personal and organizational development.
Enhancing Communication Skills through Executive Coaching
Executive coaching is like a master class in communication skills. Through a coaching engagement, leaders become more aware of their strengths and where there are gaps. Each session gives an opportunity to use real world situations to practice new techniques and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment.
Starla Sireno is an NYC-based Executive Leadership Coach. She has helped develop leaders in some of the most recognized organizations ranging from Fortune 500 to fast-growth technology companies. Starla has partnered with more than 500 leaders in over 60 organizations around the world. Inquire how you can work with Starla or her team.