What Great Leaders Say — and How They Say It

Always consider your audience (the receiver) and the 'noise' in their environment or mind when communicating to ensure your message is understood.

Frame your messages positively to encourage desired behaviors and responses, as people react differently to gain-focused versus loss-focused language.

Use concrete, specific language when you want your team to perform a particular action or understand a task, avoiding vague generalities like 'work faster' or 'be better.'

Employ 'achievement words' (e.g., prevail, accomplish, strive) in your communications to unconsciously prime your team for success and boost performance.

Be proactive in filling information gaps and addressing uncertainty; if you don't, people will fill those blanks negatively, leading to anxiety and rumors.

Practice self-talk that reframes stressful situations (e.g., 'nervous' to 'excited') to manage your own physiological and psychological responses, improving your leadership presence.

Cultivate a positive outlook and gratitude, as emotions are contagious, and your positive demeanor can significantly influence your team's morale and productivity.