When People Listen To You, Do They Hear A Leader?

Tuesday 29 June, 2010

by Karla Brandau

As someone on the way up, you are a leader whether you have a formal spot in the upper echelons of the organisation or not.

You can accelerate your climb up the organisation ladder by consistently communicating as a thought-leader.
Your words brand you. As they march out of your mouth on the phone, in an elevator, in the hall, by the coffee machine, with your manager, or in a team meeting, are they branding you as a leader?
Every time you have the opportunity to verbalise your thoughts, your goal should be to influence decisions by making your point in a clear and concise manner. If you do, the people listening will hear the voice of a leader.
To brand yourself as a leader others will listen to, use the tips below:

1. Product tips
   
   Your words are your product. Choose them carefully to ensure they convey your verbal message accurately.
   
2. Packaging tips
   
   Packaging involves the entire non-verbal message you deliver from the way you dress to the enthusiasm you portray. Dress appropriately and convince people to your viewpoint with confident body language, a convincing smile and bright eyes.
   
3. Advertising tips
   
   Deliver your message using imagery, metaphors, anecdotes, props, and anything else that will concisely outline the benefits of your proposal. Make your presentation dance with delight before the prospective buyers of your ideas.

The last tip is to carefully plan your next opportunity to conduct a meeting, persuade to a course of action, or sell your idea for the next team building retreat. People will listen to you and respect you as a leader.

Source:ceoonline.com