I’ve spent years teaching executives to establish their personal brands, speak authentically, and communicate effectively, and there are certainly ways to communicate that make the difference between a message that falls flat and one that gets acted upon. Here are three powerful tips to ensure you get heard and your message is received correctly:
Get centered around your core values
People want to know what the leaders they follow stand for. Sharing your core values and beliefs consistently in your verbal and written communications creates context around your words and actions. We feel safe when we know where someone stands, even if we don’t like what they stand for.
Begin by identifying your core values. Strive for a narrower focus rather than a broad, all-encompassing set of values. Think beyond the obvious — for example, if your value is “honesty” ask yourself if you mean “transparency, candor, honesty” or some other version of the value. Choose to earn credibility for two to three values that authentically represent you and around which you’ll build trust.
Choose your words wisely
When Abraham Maslow introduced us to his “Hierarchy of Needs,” he illustrated that humans need to be validated, feel safe, and be acknowledged in order to reach their potential. When the words we use help people feel acknowledged and accepted, our message is received well.
There are three simple phrases that are not always taught in business school but which can catapult your communication effectiveness: Please, thank you, and I’m sorry.
- “Please” goes a long way toward making someone feel valued, respected, and recognized.
- “Thank you” makes someone feel appreciated and acknowledged.
- And “I’m sorry” reflects that you truly care for and respect the other person after you made a mistake.
Self-talk frames your narrative
When you believe in yourself and in what you are telling others, the likelihood they’ll accept your message as truth increases.
If you layer self-doubt and negative self-talk over a positive message, you confuse your target audience. What we tell ourselves leaks out into what we tell others. For example, if you feel a deep sense of inadequacy or lack of confidence, others perceive it as uncertainty in the message delivered.
To learn more about effective communication👉watch this LinkedIn LIVE session, my special guest Melody Godfred and I shared powerful tips and actionable steps for effective communication. We unpack key insights to finding your voice and leaving a lasting impact with your message!
