The 3 Most Common Communication Mistakes & How to Fix them

Poor communication is expensive. A study by David Grossman shows it can cost a business up to $62M annually. Leaders beware!

I have worked with some of the most brilliant business leaders over the last 20 years. Some tiny mistakes in communication can keep them from reaching their potential.

Here are the 3 most common mistakes leaders make (and how to fix them):

1. *Assuming that people understand*

The problem with knowing something is that you assume everyone else knows it, too. Speak specifically. Repeat yourself if you have to. Build a narrative to help people understand what's going on with the organization. This will engage your people. It is also how you prepare the next generation of leaders.

𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺  

2. *Waiting for your turn to speak while someone is talking*

People value people who value them. The way to value your colleagues is to listen with body and mind. Pay attention and listen intently, especially when you disagree. Show understanding through gestures and facial expressions. Respond only after they are done.

𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥

3. *Always telling instead of asking*

People have ideas, motivations and goals. If you care for their ideas, they care for the organization. So, when you are talking to someone down the hallway, ask open-ended questions like "Tell me more about that" or "Please, explain that for me." You will get more thoughtful replies. You will also learn more about what's going on in the business.

𝘈𝘴𝘬 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯-𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴

Want to influence and inspire your team? Start with empathy and transparency in the way you talk to them. You have places to go and things to get done. Lead on!