Of all the characteristics that are required of successful leaders, communication is perhaps one of the most underrated. Without the ability to effectively convey information to colleagues, employees, and clients, it is impossible to sell your vision to the people whose help you’ll need to realize it.



But while we know how important effective communication is to the success of any organization, it can sometimes be daunting for new, or even experienced, business leaders to develop or refine their communication skills. Below is a list of ways in which any manager, executive, or employee can become a communicator.

5 Ways For Business Leaders To Improve Their Communication Skills

1. Learn To Adapt Your Communication Style - According to recent studies, different communication styles is the most frequently cited cause for poor workplace communication. As a manager, it is important that you understand not only your own leadership style, but what motivates your individual employees, so that you can tailor your message in a way that will help it land, no matter who you are sharing it with.
2. Become A Better Listener - Listening is as important to successful communication as talking, if not more so. Therefore as a leader it is imperative to practice active listening skills in conversations with your employees. Pose questions, ask them to elaborate, and take their words to heart. Allowing your team to feel listened to can make a big difference in their performance.
3. Learn How To Read And Express Body Language - Paying attention to your conversation partner’s body language can help you determine how comfortable they are with expressing their views to you. In turn, by utilizing open body language, a leader can establish a rapport with their employees and create a more empathetic environment.
4. Focus On Clarity - When imparting information, it is critical to be as specific and detailed as possible. Your team will better understand and be prepared to execute the tasks you are asking of them if you clearly define the desired results, the process they need to follow, and the timeline in which you hope to accomplish it.
5. Find Common Ground - Communicating is easier when the two people partaking in it enjoy a shared interest. Remember that small talk can sometimes be necessary! It can help you build connections and deliver your messages more efficiently.
   

There are a lot of other ways in which to improve your communication skills. Don’t be afraid to seek the resources both here and elsewhere that you may need to become a better communicator, and ultimately a more effective leader!