Question: Can you imagine an effective leader who is not an effective communicator? Leadership communication skills are very important. Some would call effective communication the most important leadership competency. Without the skills of effective communication, you will not be an effective leader, especially in this complex, fast-paced environment.
It is important for the leader to create an environment of open communication where ideas, solutions, and problems can all be discussed without fear. When employees understand that communication is open and encouraged, they will perform better.
Using the assigned readings, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet, research communication competencies required for leaders.
Module Overview: In this module, you will explore the leader as a communicator. Leaders today must be effective in all three communication modalities-one to one, one to many, and in various "e" forms of communications (e.g., e-mails, blogs, webinars, or teleconferences).
They must also be consistent and "in the moment." It is all about making connections and creating an atmosphere of open, bi-directional dialogue. Effective communication occurs only if the receiver understands the message as the sender intended.
The importance of effective communication to leaders is clear daily in all organizations. Since 1938, when Chester Barnard concluded that communication was the main task of managers and executives, emphasis has been placed on improving leadership communication in organizations.
The key to the success of any executive is the ability to communicate effectively. Can you imagine an effective leader who is not an effective communicator? Some research suggests that leaders devote seven of every ten minutes of their leadership time to some form of communication.
Because today's employees demand a more coaching or mentoring leadership style, leaders need to develop strong interpersonal skills. Leaders today often pride themselves on the ability to multitask especially through the use of technology.
Others argue that this creates superficial relationships and interactions with employees and that it is far more effective for leaders to focus on the "moment" and to create meaningful interactions with employees.
Barnard, C. (1938). The function of the executive. Cambridge, NY: Harvard University Press.
Then, respond to the following:
• What are some key communication competencies needed in leaders today?
• Is individual communication more important than group or mass communication? Why or why not?
• List 2-4 strategies that leaders can use to improve their individual communication skills. Which method is most important? Why?
Module Readings:
Complete the following readings early in the module:
1. Read the overview for Module
2. From the textbook, The leadership challenge (5th ed.), read the following chapters:
• Recognize Contributions
• Foster Collaboration
3. From the Internet, read the following:
• Barrett, D. (2006). Leadership communication: A communication approach for senior-level managers. Handbook of Business Strategy, (7)1, 385-390.