3 ways great leaders communicate

A recent post I wrote gave six approaches for inspiring and motivating people - a critical component to being an effective leader. Adding to that, much of what influences others comes from what we say. When you feel inspired or motivated, you remember what was said to conjure up those feelings.

Marcel Schwantes, principal and founder of Leadership From the Core, provides a list of three things great leaders say that build trust, which can then lead to inspiring and motivating others. The three phrases are:

1. "That was my fault." All great and effective leaders know how to put their egos aside.

2. "I couldn't have done it without you." A much better, and more effective way, of saying thank you.

3. "Can I get your advice on this?" People think more highly of those who ask for help.

However, as with anything we say, there is another side of the coin - what we shouldn't say. Schwantes provides this list too. Three phases include:

1. "That's not my problem."

2. "I'm in charge."

3. "It's impossible."

These three phrases, which need no explanation, should never come out of the mouth of a leader.

Remember, Schwantes writes, "Words can be memorable and create immense value for you, or they can leave you shaking your head in frustration." Make sure yours are the former.

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