It is often thought that being able to lead is the most important characteristic for good leadership, and that also makes sense. Yet being able to communicate is even more important. In a managerial position you are dependent on contact with others. Your customers, clients, employees, and perhaps also your competitors. They all depend on what you communicate to them and about your company.
 
Before I go into communication in leadership, I first answer another question. Because what exactly is leadership? Leadership is serving, inspiring and motivating others in the thinking, behavior and actions that suit the person and the company, for the highest good of all involved. The clearer your communication is, the better it gets to the other person and the better you can manage your team and manage your company.
 

But what are the conditions for communication within leadership? 

 
Below I list the most important points.
 

Be approachable

 
Some leaders think that if they are busy enough, often busy and difficult to reach, they look important. However, the opposite is often true. This type of leader comes across as unorganized and, above all, unapproachable . Team members with pressing questions cannot turn to you. As a result, work remains unfinished or is not done properly. Moreover, your employees will come to you less and less because they know that you don’t have time for them. Certainly not with personal questions or problems. Be available by also taking some time off even when you’re busy if someone comes to you with a question or problem. That report or phone call may well wait ten minutes if someone has a question at your desk. It is even better to regularly come from behind your desk and be visible.
 
Visit your employees to ask how they are doing. Be a sparring partner for the other. This creates trust and gives room for communication.

Ensure an open dialogue

If you as a leader also have a coaching role, using an open dialogue is a good tool. It ensures good conversations and a better working relationship. With an open dialogue you try to find the underlying beliefs that determine the thinking, feeling and acting of the other. Curiosity and letting go of judgment are important characteristics of an open dialogue.

Listen without judgment

Listening without judgment, I just mentioned, is another very important part of good communication in leadership. Without filling in what the other person thinks and without imposing your own beliefs, you listen to your conversation partner.
 

Dare to ask for advice

As a leader, don’t be afraid to ask others for advice. You are not weak when you turn to someone else for advice, on the contrary. By being vulnerable and open, you as a leader not only learn more, but you also become a more accessible leader. This makes you stronger and more powerful. Moreover, it will strengthen your communication skills, because you listen and you translate the message to your employees.

Do you have questions about communication or leadership in general?
 
I am available for advice or assistance.