Communication Practices for Great Leadership

Good communication is a core leadership function. Communication can be verbal, written or through body language. Strong leaders must master these types of communication, as they all play a hugely important role.

Why is it important for a leader to have great communication skills?

Good communication is a core leadership function and a key characteristic of a good leader. Effective communication practices and effective strong leadership are closely intertwined. 

When it comes to communication in business, there are three main ways to go about it:

  1. Non-verbal communication 
  2. Written communication 
  3. Verbal communication 

Effective communication – non-verbal communication

Body language

A famous study by Professor Albert Mehrabian told us that non-verbal signals play a large part in any communication between people; the 7%-38%-55% communication rule: 

  • 7% words used 
  • 38% way we say (intonation) 
  • 55% body language 

Individuals find it easier to control what they say than to conceal their gestures. Gestures expose clues to your thoughts. To conceal unwanted displays of your thoughts, be mindful of the motions you make. 

Listening skills

Listening is the ability to accurately receive and interpret messages in the communication process. 

The average number of words you’re able to listen to per minute is around 450. How much of what we hear is absorbed? Even though your ears are capable of picking up on so many words, your brain doesn’t necessarily process all of them. Most people usually only remember about 17% to 25% of the things they listen to. 

Listening is key to all effective communication. Without the ability to listen effectively, messages are easily misunderstood. As a result, communication breaks down and the communicator of the message can easily become frustrated or irritated. 

Effective communication – written communication

Besides the writing that you send to clients and customers, there is the writing that you send to other team members and staff. A good piece of writing has the ability to inspire and unify all your team members. A bad piece of writing has the potential to undermine your authority and show disrespect towards the rest of the group.

Writing is about more than just grammar and spelling. These are important skills but it is also about style, tone, and punctuation. It is about the correct choice of words so you can influence and engage your audience. We have a course that can help you with your report writing to ensure that they are effective at communicating the purpose of the report.  

Effective communication – verbal communication

Effective speaking involves the words you choose and how you say them. 

Verbal communication skills work when you: 

  • Think before you speak
  • Are clear and concise
  • Speak with confidence
  • Vary your vocal tone
  • Are an active listener
  • Are aware of non-verbal communication cues
  • Think about the perspective of your audience

Affirm with actions

While effective leaders master the art and craft of language, speaking clearly and presenting logical and compelling arguments, skilled leaders also know that communication goes beyond words. If people hear one thing from you and see another, your credibility can be lost. People need to trust you. Your behaviour and actions communicate a world of information, so be clear on the messages you send even when you are not saying anything. 

If you wish to learn more about the importance of communication practices for great leadership then please feel free to get in touch with us today. We can explain the importance of communication skills in more detail, as well as help you to improve your communication in business through written and verbal means.