W21D3 - Communication
May 27, 2014
"So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air" - 1 Corinthians 14:9.
It is important that leaders are clear in their communication with others, and that includes their followers, peers, customers, clients, suppliers, and the public at large. This requires not only the proper words usage, but also that the message leaders communicate is clear and that they use the appropriate media to relay the message. What's more, leaders must have the credibility that comes from being a role model and having integrity for the message to be received and believed by others. Finally, giving people a chance to ask questions or to give some other kind of feedback will let leaders know if they hit the mark where their communication is concerned.
LEADERSHIP STEP: The only way you can know if you are communicating effectively is to seek feedback from your audience and listeners. One practice you can use is to institute a five-minute wrap up at the end of every meeting you have when everyone gives you feedback on what the group had just decided and who is going to do what by when. Another method is to ask people after a speech or memo to tell you what you just said and its impact on their work or lives.
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