Month: January 2024

INFLUENTIAL LEADERS ARE EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATORS

/ Denis Baker / Leave a comment

10 Principles to Becoming a Better Communicator

“In many ways, effective communication begins with mutual respect, communication that inspires, encourages others to do thier best.” – Zig Zigler

The way we interact with people impacts the results we achieve. This is a lesson I’ve learned from my own experiences. It’s an area I’ve been working hard on.

When I think about influence, I imagine the initial interaction, the subsequent communication, and the outcome. Over time, I’ve realized that influential people and those with excellent interpersonal skills can quickly adjust their approach to suit the situation, leading to practical outcomes.

To become an influential leader, you must learn to anticipate people’s reactions and use the right tone and inflection to motivate them to respond appropriately. Remember, leadership is all about influence.

So, we must develop a communication style that drives influence.

We all communicate, right? But what does it mean to communicate effectively? It’s more than just talking. It’s about connecting.

In his book Everyone Communicates, But Few Connect, John Maxwell emphasizes that communication goes beyond words. A study by UCLA Professor Albert Mehrabian found that face-to-face communication consists of three key components: words, tone of voice, and body language.

To become an effective communicator, you must maximize the use of these three components. Adhering to these leads to positive interaction and a more remarkable ability to influence.

How can you become a better communicator and an influential leader? Here are ten principles to help you improve:

  1. KNOW AND UNDERSTAND YOUR AUDIENCE. Effective leaders understand that they are responsible for their reactions and strive to create a non-threatening atmosphere. They focus on the message they need to deliver and how to have it effectively.
  2. BODY LANGUAGE MATTERS. Great leaders pay attention to people’s reactions to their message. They are adept at recognizing changes in body language, including facial expressions and body stances.
  3. HONESTY IS THE KEY. Influential leaders are honest and factual in their communication. They don’t exaggerate or lie to make their point or look good to others. They value transparency and admit
  4. BE GUNUINE. Don’t try to be someone you’re not! People will see through it. Your position or prestige doesn’t change who you are. Stay true to yourself.
  5. SPEAK WITH CONFIDENCE. If you believe in something, say it with conviction! Don’t use words you don’t understand or can’t define. Influential leaders speak with authority, especially when discussing their expectations.
  6. TREAT GROUPS AS INDIVDUAL. Leaders often have to address groups. Influential leaders know how to make every individual feel special, as if they speak to them directly.
  7. LISTEN ACTIVELY. Great communicators listen to understand, not to respond. They focus on the speaker and absorb their message fully.
  8. SPEAK CLEARLY AND CONCISELY. Avoid unnecessary jargon and keep your message simple.
  9. SHOW EMPATHY. Understand and share the feelings of others. This shows that you care and build trust.
  10. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. Effective communication takes practice, like any skill. Keep refining your style and improving your skills.

By following these principles, you can become a better communicator and, ultimately, an influential leader.

I have become a passionate leader within many companies, organizations, and associations. In addition, I am a passionate influencer committed to teaching and communicating practical and relevant influencing techniques to create strong, effective leaders. I gained my passionate, influential leadership style through many experiences with good and bad leaders. My goal is to provide insights to influence that are practical and relevant to your daily personal and professional lives. With over 25 years of relevant and practical leadership experience in various industries, including oil and gas, chemical, petrochemical, construction, and multiple manufacturing settings, I have developed a unique teaching and speaking style that resonates with participants and attendees. Denis is a Certified Executive/Business Coach, Trainer, and Keynote Speaker through the John Maxwell. He holds a BS in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology from Oklahoma State University and is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP).