Communication style is a key trait to leadership and engaging employees

Effective communication is one of the most powerful tools a leader can possess. It’s not just about the words you choose, but the way you deliver them—how you connect, engage, and inspire others. Communication style plays a pivotal role in shaping how individuals are perceived - influencing their credibility, and how they engage with employees as a leader.

Research from the Truist Leadership Institute shows that when employees feel a genuine connection with leadership, they are more engaged, more committed to the organization’s mission, and more likely to stay. This kind of connection drives meaningful outcomes, including:

• Increased productivity

• Improved retention

• Enhanced performance

• A stronger, values-driven organizational culture

Ultimately, engaged employees help create a positive, collaborative, and innovative work environment where people feel supported and motivated to contribute their best.

According to Sally Williamson & Associates, 89 percent of respondents to a survey they conducted believe that presence helps you get ahead. All of the executives interviewed believe presence can be a differentiator. And 78 percent say a lack of presence will hold you back. And just as importantly, 98% of leaders must develop executive presence—they weren’t born with it.

Communication is an essential component of executive presence. And truly effective communication that engages and motivates employees requires both skill and intentional practice. It's not just what your executive team communicates about the organization, its values, and its strategy; it’s how they communicate with employees that shapes trust, alignment, and culture.

So, what are some keys to effective presentation? Below is a list of skills that we have identified:

• Know the 5-7 key message points or the one to drive your message home

• Be clear and concise

• Organize your messaging. Have a beginning and an end. Tell people what to expect and summarize at the end

• Use the power of storytelling. Connect with personal stories

• Slow down and don’t forget to incorporate pauses

• Make eye contact with your audience

• Use slides and visual aids to support your presentation. Don’t read from slides

• Keep an eye on your time. Try to end on time

• Don’t read from a script, practice, practice, practice

• Read the room. If people do not appear engaged, take a pause and ask a question. Vary your tone.

Being your authentic self is a game changer.  Your audience is more engaged when they feel connected to you as a person.

Engaged employees are key to an organization’s success, and as a leader, communication is central to your effectiveness. It’s not only about what you say, but how you connect and engage those around you.

Christopher Beard is the founder of The Crisis Shop, which specializes in communications management, reputational issues, crisis management and is a partner with Sagin for executive development and content collaborator.

Sagin, LLC is a professional services firm providing Executive and workforce development either one on one coaching or team-based learning.   In addition, Sagin is a management consulting firm and IT Managed Services provider.   To learn more, you can email us at info@saginllc.com or +1.312.281.0290