Slide 1 - Communication

We are going to start today by discussing the importance of communication in leadership and examine the communication process of sending and receiving messages.

So we first begin with the definition of communication, in that it is the process of conveying information and meaning. However, true communication will only take place when all parties understand the message from the same perspective. So basically the message needs to be clear and understandable.

Achieving true communication via effective and efficient messages may also help individuals and organizations accomplish their visions and goals, particularly for leaders, which I will now discuss.

Slide 2 – Communication and Leadership

As we have previously learnt, Leadership is largely about influencing others and as a result, relationships are built. These cooperative efforts, as well as other leadership tasks such as information exchanges and decision-making cannot be done successfully without some form of communication.

Studies have also shown that there is a positive relationship between communication proficiency and leadership performance. In fact, communication in the workplace has become crucial to all organisations. A recent survey completed by company recruiters revealed that out of a list of 26 attributes, the most important for new employees to have is communication and interpersonal skills.

Despite new challenges arising from the growth of information technology and multiculturalism in our society, two important parts of communication still remain the same, that is: sending and receiving messages. Which brings us to next slide, which is planning the message.

Slide 3 – Planning the Message

Leaders send a variety of messages orally, in writing and non-verbally. An important part of a manager’s job is to give instructions, which is sending a message. How well we send this message directly affects our ability to motivate employees, as well as their satisfaction with our leadership. This is why, before sending a message, we should plan it!

Questions to ask yourself when planning a message should include:

What is the goal of the message?
Who should receive it?
And how, when and where it will be transmitted?

For Example, if the message to be sent was difficult or unusual, a more orally rich channel should be