What to Communicate

Leaders know that communication is one of their most important jobs. Often I find leaders who know this and yet don't do it nearly enough. At the heart of this knowledge and skills gap is a critical question.

What do I need to communicate?

Often leaders say, "I've already told them that, sent the email, gave the presentation." While this may be true, not only do these communications need to be repeated, but often what is being communicated is the wrong thing, or at the wrong time.

Here is a simple rule of thumb:

Communicate why before how, and don't switch too soon.

In most organizations and teams the "why" is missing. When the why is strong enough, the how will be figured out. Besides, if you are trying to empower your organization, as a leader you probably need to spend less time on how anyway.

Focus more of your communication and conversation on why and less on how.

Labels: communication

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