The Importance Of Communication in Leadership

Any consideration of effective leadership typically starts with focusing on operational processes and technical expertise—in other words, hard skills. However, it’s essential to recognize the need for the so-called “soft skills” crucial to success in organizations of all sizes across every industry. Of those, perhaps none is as critical as solid communication skills.

Leaders drive vision, inspire employees, and develop strategies that steer a company toward its goals. However, those with a great vision and a high level of technical skills dilute their impact if they lack the skills to articulate that vision. Leadership is about more than making decisions. It’s about communicating those decisions in a way that motivates and engages everyone involved. This is especially true in a diverse, global marketplace. 

The role of communication in leadership cannot be overstated. It’s pivotal to the success of any organization. 

Exceptional Leadership is Central to Organizational Success

Leadership is integral to the success of any organization. A strong leader provides direction and fosters a positive work environment. They influence organizational culture, employee morale, and workforce productivity. 

The success of leadership lies in the ability to make sound decisions and effectively communicate these decisions to the team. This ensures that everyone in the organization is aligned with the company’s vision and goals. Perhaps most importantly, compelling communication skills foster an environment where employees feel valued and understood.

Forbes noted that “effective communication is the cornerstone of leadership effectiveness. It builds relationships, inspires trust, and fosters a shared vision.” The challenge for leaders is to develop skills most important for communication in leadership.

Traits and Habits of Influential Leaders

Strong leaders possess traits and habits that set them apart. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, authenticity tops the list. Nothing can replace honesty, sincerity, and finding a voice that is not a cookie-cutter version of every other leader’s voice to be an effective leader.

“Avoid using corporate-speak or sounding like someone you’re not,” the Center noted. “Let who you are, where you come from, and what you value come through in your communication. People want, respect, and will follow authentic leadership.”

Another essential trait of strong leadership is clarity, which requires leaders to communicate clearly and concisely. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps everyone on the same page. Consistency in communication also builds trust as it involves transparent, reliable, and predictable communications.

Empathy and active listening are two traits that work together. An empathetic leader can connect with employers and understand their points of view. Active listening flows from empathy. It involves genuinely paying attention to what employees say and making an effort to understand their perspectives. Both empathy and active listening help leaders gain valuable insights into their workforce and forge stronger relationships.

It’s also important for leaders to remember that a positive attitude is contagious. Leaders who communicate with optimism and enthusiasm inspire their employees and create a positive work environment. A positive attitude in communication helps motivate employees and boost morale.

Challenges That Keep Leaders From Developing Good Communication Skills

Many leaders face significant roadblocks in developing communication skills. Understanding these challenges can help leaders address and overcome them. Some common roadblocks include the following.

Lack of Self-Awareness: Many leaders may not realize they have communication issues because they lack self-awareness. They might believe they are already effective communicators, unaware of the gaps in their skills.

Time constraints: Leaders often juggle multiple responsibilities and face constant time pressures. Prioritizing immediate tasks and operational demands over skill development leaves little time for improving communication skills.

Fear of feedback: Receiving feedback can be uncomfortable, especially if it highlights areas of weakness. Leaders who fear criticism may avoid seeking feedback from peers and subordinates.

Overconfidence: This is a common problem. Some leaders feel overly confident in their communication abilities and see no need for further development. This overconfidence can prevent them from recognizing the need to adapt and refine their skills.

Resistance to change: Developing new communication skills often requires changing long-standing habits and behaviors. Leaders who are resistant to change may struggle to adopt new communication methods.

Misalignment of priorities: Leaders may prioritize other areas of professional development over communication skills, particularly if they do not see immediate benefits.

Emotional barriers: Personal insecurities, stress, and anxiety significantly impact a leader’s communication abilities.

Another issue the Center for Creative Leadership pointed out is an inability to “read the room.” This phrase refers to the ability to watch an audience and recognize nonverbal signs of engagement or disengagement and confusion or understanding. Some people excel in this area, and others struggle. Leaders who consistently see a difference between what they intend to say and how it’s received may want to address their communication skills.

The Online MA in Mass Communication from the University of Florida College of Communications and Journalism

Mastering specific communication skills provides leaders with a significant advantage. They learn universal communication skills as well as those for specific career fields that can boost their ability to guide teams, departments, or even entire organizations effectively.

This is especially important in fields that focus on communications. For example, leadership skills are part of what students learn in the online Master of Arts in Mass Communication program from the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications (UFCJC).

The university offers graduate students the opportunity to prepare themselves as leaders in seven fields: Digital Journalism, Digital Strategy, Global Strategic Communications, Public Interest Communication, Public Relations, Social Media, and Web Design.

Among the many skills students learn in the program are those that help them become better leaders. Improving communication skills is essential for anyone aspiring to leadership. They provide the foundation upon which successful leaders build their careers.

Posted: August 6, 2024
Category: UF CJC Online Blog
Tagged as: master in mass communication