Robust, Transparent Communication: Let’s Talk About It!

Hey! New leaders! Why can’t we talk good? 

Ghastly grammar aside, while we all understand that communication is crucial, sometimes it’s such a simple, yet not simplistic issue that the basics can be overlooked. 

With that in mind, we wanted to take an opportunity to break down communication, and take a pause to consider “wow, what does good communication with my team really mean?”

Priorities as a new leader will vary, however intentional emphasis on communication is a starter kit to make a positive impression towards your goals, and a beautiful opportunity to listen and learn the culture – all through the conversations you’ll have with your team. 

Here’s what focusing on communication can achieve for new leaders: 

1. Building trust: Clear and honest communication builds trust with team members and fosters openness and transparency within the organization. This, in turn, helps maintain a positive work environment and strong relationships (especially when they’re already developed). 
2. Clarity: Bring your ideas, goals, and expectations clearly to team members. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and knows what is expected of them.
3. Decision-making: Good communication enables leaders to gather input from their team members, leading to better-informed decision-making. It also helps in explaining decisions and the reasoning behind them to garner support and alignment.
4. Problem-solving: Robust communication allows leaders to identify issues and challenges within the team or organization and work collaboratively with others to find solutions.
5. Motivation and engagement: Effective communication can inspire and motivate team members by providing them with a clear sense of direction and purpose. It also increases engagement and commitment to achieving common goals.
6. Conflict resolution: When issues arise, strong communication skills are essential for resolving conflicts in a constructive manner. Leaders who can communicate effectively are better equipped to address disagreements and manage difficult conversations.
7. New leaders can sometimes overlook that one of the most important things they can achieve is the development of others. 

Here are some key facts about communication for leaders to keep in mind: 

1. Communication is a two-way process: Effective communication involves both speaking and listening. Leaders must not only convey their messages clearly but also actively listen to their team members to understand their perspectives and needs.
2. Nonverbal communication is important: Nonverbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, play a significant role in how messages are perceived. Leaders must be mindful of their nonverbal communication to ensure that their message is received accurately.
3. Tailoring communication to the audience: Different team members may require different communication styles. Leaders should adapt their communication approach to suit the preferences, needs, and communication styles of individual team members.
4. Regular communication is key: Consistent and regular communication helps to keep team members informed, engaged, and motivated. Leaders should make communication a priority and provide updates, feedback, and guidance on a regular basis.
5. Clear communication promotes understanding: Clarity is essential for effective communication. Leaders should use simple and concise language, avoid jargon, and ensure that their message is easily understood by everyone in the team.
6. Communication builds trust: Open and honest communication fosters trust between leaders and team members. By being transparent, approachable, and receptive to feedback, leaders can create a culture of trust and collaboration within the organization.
7. Feedback is essential for growth: Providing constructive feedback helps team members improve their performance, develop their skills, and achieve their goals. Leaders should be proactive in giving feedback and creating opportunities for open dialogue and learning. 

Communicating some numbers and percentages: 

1. According to surveys by SalesForce, Right Management, AND ClearCompany, 86% of employees cite ineffective communication as the primary cause for workplace failures.
2. A study by the Holmes Report found that 60% of companies do not have a long-term strategy for their internal communications.
3. The World Economic Forum’s “The Future of Jobs Report 2020” highlighted that strong communication skills are among the top 10 skills that will be in demand by employers in 2025.
4. Research from Gallup suggests that employees who feel their voice is heard at work are 4.6 times more likely to feel empowered to perform their best work.

Robust, transparent communication is so important for new leaders, it’s ironic that we don’t seem to talk about as much as we should!