Ditch distractions and be fully present
Working with a senior leader who had a stinker of an announcement to make to the public, I noticed one issue was getting in the way of our preparation.
He was constantly distracted.
Even with the stakes sky-high, our discussions often trailed away because his mind wasn’t in the room.
He did a kind of telco juggling act between the two phones he carried. I don’t know how he managed it, but sometimes he was on both at the same time.
I had to put my foot down. This communication would succeed or tank, based on how well he was able to manage his own state during that crucial announcement.
Fortunately, he was an amazing leader who listened to advice.
A senior leadership role comes with a gazillion conflicting priorities which can stop you communicating at your most credible.
Think of leaders throughout history who were exceptional communicators. When they spoke, they were focused and present.
Martin Luther King didn’t have to worry that he’d forgotten to turn his phone to silent when he declared, “I have a dream.” But I’m sure he had many other concerns as he stepped up to that bank of microphones.
Being able to clear your mind of distractions under pressure can mean the difference between nailing a message that stirs people to action and defensive waffle that causes havoc.
For the precise time you need to be “on” – which could be the duration of a board meeting, an important conversation or a media interview – commit to being fully there.
Get your content straight. Avoid the temptation to wing it.
Block out enough time beforehand to sit, breathe and visualise a positive result.
Focus on your audience, whether that’s one person or a large group, and how you can be of value to them.
What about if you have to communicate a change that nobody wants? That’s an all-too-common leadership dilemma. My latest video has specific tips to cut through resistance. https://youtu.be/mueemSELFFM
Outstanding, trustworthy communication doesn’t happen by accident. Be deliberate about being present.
