Be relatable or be replaced: Lessons for leaders from the election campaign

Most of us are sick of political messaging right now. This isn’t a commentary on policies, voting patterns or campaign shenanigans.

But the federal election result is a fascinating reflection of two very different communication styles exhibited by Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton.

The leaders’ televised debates were dry affairs, that’s for sure. The exception was number 3 in my view, where a panel of interviewers pressed both men to go beyond sterile talking points and reveal something of their personalities.

To be believable and build trust, leaders need a blend of competence in their area of expertise and connection with their audience.

One leader was firmly ensconced at the competence end, often coming across as blunt and without huge doses of warmth.

In the other corner was a leader with deeper warmth and relatability but, at times, less of that perceptible strength people expect from a Prime Minister.

No prizes, of course, for identifying which was which.

Strength without warmth can seem cold and aloof. Warmth without enough strength risks coming across as a lightweight.

Here’s the fascinating part, though. If you connect strongly with your audience when you communicate, people are more likely to forgive you for other imperfections.

But if you leave them feeling cold, they won’t give you any leeway. They’ll tune out, move on, write you off. 

Regardless of your political views, take those communication lessons from our leaders’ performances.

To be believable, you must convey your competence – but it’s crucial that you also demonstrate your human-ness; creating rapport and making others feel safe and respected.

Work to keep both qualities in balance, remembering that a lack of connection is a surefire way to lose people’s support.