Leadership: Clarity or Confusion?
This week more than ever, it’s really clear that one of the most important areas on which you will be judged as a leader is CLARITY. Whatever your political standpoint, the government announcement on Sunday left the country divided and, for some, left more questions than answers which in turn sent the country into a frenzy.
Social media went crazy, the PM was an object of ridicule and some people (even those who had supported his decisions throughout the crisis) were left questioning his ability to successfully bring the UK out of lockdown. It’s a lesson for all leaders that no matter how well you think you’re doing; it only takes one unclear message to destroy all the work you’ve done beforehand.
It was always going to be a challenge for any government to unpick the lockdown measures to please everyone and now, because of the lack of clarity from the latest announcement, it’s going to be a tough ride for the government. They are now faced with an uphill struggle to win back the support of the general public, and all because of lack of clarity, understanding and a clear and defined message for all.
These 5 tips are a great starting point and are easy to apply:
- Keep it simple
You may have a lot of information you want to convey but it’s important that you place the greatest emphasis on the essential items. Too much information and your core message can get lost. Keep things simple and it will help to avoid misunderstandings.
- Be Human & Have Empathy
See things from the perspective of those you’re communicating with. If you understand their wants and needs, the bond of communication will strengthen. Misunderstanding can be the cause in a breakdown of communication and empathising will make people feel more comfortable to ask questions.
- Timing
Think carefully about when you want to deliver your message and find a time that works for everyone especially if there are plans and outcomes to be met as a result of your message. A big announcement at the weekend for example might not be well received if they have to put plans into action by Monday!
- Be Confident & Assertive
When delivering instructions, the confidence you exude is extremely important. Indecisiveness—or the appearance of uncertainty—leads to confusion. If you’re saying one thing and your tone and/or bod language is saying another, people will get conflicting messages. Clarity means delivering a consistent message and leaving little room for interpretation.
- Listen
Listening is one of the most powerful tools in your leadership toolbox and a face to face conversation is always recommended where possible. Simply asking someone to repeat what you have said is a great way to check for clarity and provides opportunity to address potential problems or issues that may prove problematic when an employee is trying to execute your instructions.
What are you doing as a leader to make sure your messaging is clear and concise?
Claire Farley
Claire heads up each recruitment campaign and is the first point of contact be that client or candidate. Claire is the main facilitator at the Selection Days and is renowned for ensuring the days run as smoothly as possible and precisely to time. Claire is (by her own admission) a huge Take That fan so if you resemble Gary Barlow you may get special treatment!
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