When you give feedback to others or share your concerns about an idea or a suggestion, do you think about how your message is coming across? Do you try to put yourself in the place of the person receiving your comments or do you just say what you have to say? As a communication enthusiast and leadership development trainer, I am always aware of language.  I listen carefully to what people say in their choice of both their words and the way they are being transmitted. My ears perk up when I hear information being shared in a tactless way, knowing that the speaker may be unaware of how they sound.

[Tweet “When we are aware of the impact of words, we are communicating as a leader.”]

 In a recent interview in the NY Times, Adam Bryant spoke with Francisco D’Souza, chief executive of Cognizant, about dealing with his frontline managers. It never occurred to D’Souza how his message was being transmitted until others shared with him how harshly he sounded. He suddenly realized how words matter:

 “It made me understand that the weight of my words was a lot heavier than I gave myself credit for, and it led me to be much more thoughtful and measured in how I give feedback.”

 Here are four ways to becoming a more self-aware communicator: 

1.  Ask others how we come across: The best way to find out how our messages are being received or understood is to request feedback from those around us at work, in our volunteer positions and in our personal lives. We could either have a face- to- face conversation or use a written 360 feedback survey. But which ever we choose, take the time to see how our words are being recognized.

 [Tweet “Only when we are open to feedback, can we learn and grow into stronger communicators and leaders.”]

2.  Become an assertive communicator: When we speak in an open, direct and clear way, while still being respectful of the other person’s point of view, we are communicating in an assertive way. We avoid swinging between passive and aggressive communication, while still sharing our needs. It’s the most honest and positive way to communicate.

3.  Create authentic rapport with others: In order to be strong and clear communicators, we need to reach out to people in a meaningful way. It is always helpful to understand what makes them tick and what they value because then we can deepen the connections with them.  Ask others what energizes and excites them and see what you may have in common.

[Tweet “Creating authentic rapport enables leaders to communicate a more meaningful message.”]

 4.  Be flexible and welcome differences in opinion: When we roll out our messages and ideas, not everyone on our team might agree with us. Some people may offer different perspectives and suggestions. Instead of judging, take the time to review the pros and cons of the ideas. Maybe there are pieces that can be integrated to produce an even better outcome. The self-aware communicator knows that their idea can always use some interesting additions.

 Our words matter and can impact the way our messages are received. Leaders who are self-aware communicators welcome feedback and input from others. Are you a leader who is a self-aware communicator? How else do you honor your words?

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