What Sets Great Leaders Apart?
There have been many books written about leadership style.
I believe that regardless of your leadership style, or degrees held, or role in an organization - great leaders set themselves apart by being clear, persuasive and impactful speakers.
Persuasive speaking skills are crucial for leaders for these reasons:
Effective Communication: Leaders need to convey their ideas, vision, goals, and strategies impactfully to their team members, stakeholders, and the broader audience.
Motivation: Leaders need to inspire and motivate their teams to achieve common objectives.
Building Relationships: Effective communicators build strong relationships with their team members, peers, clients, and stakeholders.
Credibility and Authority: Leaders who communicate clearly and articulately are perceived as more credible and authoritative.
Handling Challenges: In times of crisis or change, leaders need to address concerns confidently and persuasively.
Influencing Decision Making: Leaders need to persuade others to accept their ideas or viewpoints.
Effective Delegation: Clear communication is essential for delegating tasks and responsibilities.
Conflict Resolution: Leaders with persuasive speaking skills can facilitate constructive discussions and resolve conflicts efficiently, maintaining a positive work atmosphere.
Develop the following speaking skills to set yourself apart as a great leader:
Clarity: Pronounce words clearly, slowing down when necessary, and adjust your volume for the room you are in.
Tone: Eliminate speech habits that make you sound unconfident. Does the tone of your voice reflect that you are asking for permission to speak or that you are speaking with authority? Are you ending sentences with an “up tone” that sounds as if you are asking a question when you are not?
Impact: Remember the saying, “Less is more.” A short speech with impactful messaging will have the greatest impact on your audience. Are you using fillers that may make you sound unprofessional? Do you know when to stop talking and let space and silence work in your favor to create excitement or draw people in?
Recognizing that your speaking skills may not be representing your best self is the first step.
Great leaders also ask for help when needed! Share your vision, build relationships, and inspire action more effectively with SpeechScience.
