Key words for leaders

I've worked with many excellent leaders over the years and no two were exactly alike. Some had great technical knowledge while others had great vision. Some were charismatic and inspirational, while others were introspective and insightful. But, no matter what gifts they brought to the role of leader, they all had one thing in common: their primary tools of leadership were words.

Leaders use language to inform, inspire, and persuade. Whether through speeches, vision statements, or annual reports, a leader must find the right words to connect employees and managers with each other, as well as with other stakeholders.

And when we're trying to understand organizational culture, words are critical! The way people talk about
their work, how they describe their customers, the job titles they use, and how they speak with co-workers all help to define the culture. But, sometimes you have to listen very carefully to catch a sense of the organization's culture. Slogans, posters, and marketing campaigns, which are highly visible in some organizations, may not reflect the true culture. It's what their leaders and employees say that really defines a winning culture.

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"The difference between the almost right word and the right word is ... the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning." -- Mark Twain

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Key Words Can Inspire Bottom Line Results

Language can be tricky, as Mark Twain observed. How often do we choose the wrong word, or use a term out of context, only to have it blow up in our faces? If you're a presidential candidate these days the answer to that question is 'often.' And if you're an organizational leader you have to be very sensitive to how your language impacts others. Do you use language that clarifies, motivates, and inspires? Or does your language tend to confuse, discourage, or demoralize?

Effective leaders use language that makes employees feel valued, encouraged, and respected. When communicating with individuals or groups, try to use language that reflects these needs:

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