Motivational Speakers on Communication

As a motivational speaker, communication in the workplace is a topic I’m often called to talk about. Good communication is one of the most valuable aspects of any company. When employees communicate fluently, work happens more efficiently. Ideas blossom, as barriers like fear, anger, and frustration don’t hinder their development. Small issues get worked out before they become large. Coworkers grow from their inevitable conflicts, because they’re able to engage in the difficult conversations that lead to real solutions.

Companies often spend a huge chunk of money on cleaning up the results of bad communication, however. A typical manager spends up to 40% of her time dealing with conflicts, according to the Washington Business Journal. Unresolved conflicts are responsible for more than 50% of decisions to leave a company, and training someone new can cost up to 150% of the current employee’s salary. Thus, improved communication can make retention rates, productivity, and profits soar.

Thus, all leaders must develop strong communication skills.

The right motivational speaker with communication expertise will fire up your employees to supercharge their communication skills and provide guidance for making crucial changes. As an experienced motivational speaker, I’ll share communication strategies like the following, and instill the passion to use them each day.

1. Look at what you’re unconsciously projecting.

   If you use closed body language, tell off-color jokes, or make overly harsh statements without considering their effect on others, you’re projecting negativity. Reflect on what your daily habits communicate about you to the world. If it’s not the image you want to present, work to curb these habits and practice healthier ones. Model strong leadership in action, and you’ll inspire real change.

2. Know how to move your audience.

   Pay attention to what moves people and drives them, as well as the timing that works for them. Notice who doesn’t like to be rushed in decision making, and give them space and time. Notice, too, whom they listen to—like your advocate—and solicit support from those people when needed. Know what form of communication works best for your audience as well, and consider whether an email outline of your idea or a one-on-one meeting would work best. When all employees know how to be heard in their organization, they’ll feel more satisfied with their jobs.

3. Drop the defensiveness.

   Defensiveness instigates conflicts and drives them forward. Having a forthright conversation without defensiveness getting in the way can lead to genuine understanding. When you feel defensiveness coming on, work to cool down, reflect, see the other person’s point of view, and then speak calmly about the issue. Step away from the situation first if need be, or just take a moment to collect your thoughts if that’s not possible. As you learn to let go of defensiveness, you’ll be able to focus on your end goal rather than getting sucked into negative feedback loops.

4. Keep an open-door policy for constructive criticism.

   Ask your boss and people you work with closely, including those you supervise, for their input on your performance. Mention to coworkers from other departments that you would appreciate their ideas on how you might coordinate more effectively with them. By being approachable, you’ll help make sure concerns get heard and addressed as soon as possible.

The ability to listen and show respect for others are trademarks of a great leader. Hone these skills, and you’ll garner respect and admiration in turn.

In my book Difficult Conversations: Practical Tactics for Crucial Communication, I share more advice on how to foster strong communication in the workplace. Lead by example by practicing these strategies yourself, and consider how a motivational speaker on communication can strengthen your team’s performance.