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Being a Leader Who Communicates with Connection

When we think about great communicators, our minds often drift to figures like Steve Jobs—leaders who captivate audiences with inspiring, eloquent keynote speeches. But does being a great communicator really mean you have to deliver powerful speeches from a big stage? Many leaders I work with ask, “If I'm not a good communicator, can I even be a good leader?”

The answer may surprise you.

Today, I want to offer some encouragement: effective communication isn’t defined by grand speeches or charisma. It’s much simpler and within your reach, no matter where you are on your leadership journey.

Redefining What It Means to Be a Communicator

At its core, communication is about listening and learning and then sharing information, ideas, and emotions clearly. It’s not about impressing people with words; it’s about making sure those words are understood. Think about jobs where communication is critical: drive-thru workers, air traffic controllers, therapists, and translators. None of these require stage presence, but they demand the ability to listen, interpret, and respond effectively.

This redefinition of communication is liberating because it shifts the focus from being a charismatic speaker to being someone who is intentional about clarity and connection.

4 Ways to Grow as a Skilled Communicator

You don’t need to overhaul your entire communication style overnight. Here are four simple but powerful ways to enhance your communication skills:

1. Listen Longer
   Challenge yourself to listen without rushing to respond. Wait for a few seconds of silence before jumping in with your thoughts. This gives the other person time to share more and opens up opportunities for new insights.

2. Pay Attention to Nonverbal Cues
   Your body language says a lot, even when you’re not speaking. Are your arms crossed? Are you maintaining eye contact? Take note of how your nonverbal signals align with what you're trying to communicate.

3. Acknowledge Your Processing Style
   Whether you're a verbal processor who needs to talk things out or an internal processor who needs time to think, lean into your style. Own it, and give yourself space to communicate in a way that works best for you.

4. Use Fewer Words
   Great communicators can say more with fewer words. Be mindful of how much you say and how efficiently you say it. The clearer and more concise your message, the better it will be received.

Communication as a Tool for Connection

Being a skilled communicator is essential, but to truly lead well, you must also focus on connected communication. Your people need to feel seen, valued, and heard. When they do, they feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves, working toward a common goal.

Here are three ways to deepen your connection with your team through communication:

1. Embrace Vulnerability
   You don’t always have to have the answer. Saying, "I don’t know" or "I’m still thinking it through" builds trust. It shows your team that you’re human and that you value transparency over pretense.

2. Lead with Empathy and Curiosity
   You don’t need the perfect words to show genuine care for your team. When you approach every interaction with empathy and curiosity, you communicate that you value their thoughts and feelings.

3. Focus on Progress Over Perfection
   Communication is a skill you’ll continue to develop over time. Focus on making incremental improvements rather than being perfect. Celebrate the small wins as you grow in your ability to connect and convey your message.

Conclusion

You don’t need to be a world-class public speaker to be an effective leader. What your team truly needs is a leader who listens, shares information clearly, and connects with them on a personal level. Take time to reflect on your communication habits and challenge yourself to improve just a little bit every day.

By focusing on these simple yet impactful strategies, you’ll not only grow as a communicator but also create a more connected and thriving workplace culture where your people feel seen, heard, and valued.

So, are you ready to lead with connection? Let’s get started.

For more tips on improving your leadership and communication, don’t forget to grab my free Ultimate Meeting Kickoff Template!  Let’s build thriving cultures where communication leads to connection