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Why Communication Skills in Leadership Are Your Secret Weapon. Ideas From a Speech Coach.


Greek Ancient Sculpture
Greek Ancient Sculpture

Communication Skills, Not Just a Tool in Leadership.

In the world of leadership, communication isn’t just a tool; it’s the secret weapon that defines a leader’s success. If we compare our business to a structure, realize that when there is a fracture in communication there can be significant decrease in the integrity of the business as a whole. A lack of communication can cause instability, weakening and unsteadiness in your team. When communication isn't fully embraced, in some cases, it can cause collapse of the entire structure. When wielded effectively, the structure is solid. Communication fosters trust, cultivates growth, and drives teams toward extraordinary achievements.


Let’s explore four essential aspects of communication that make and set great leaders apart.

A Leader is Open to Feedback

One of the most powerful qualities of a great leader is the ability to welcome feedback—even when it’s hard to hear. Leaders who embrace feedback with an open mind demonstrate maturity and emotional intelligence. They view feedback not as criticism, but as valuable information that can help them grow and improve. They take in all information as neutral. Proactively seeking feedback from his or her team.

Rather than becoming defensive or angry, these leaders actively seek input from their teams, creating a culture of continuous learning. When a leader listens without judgment and acts on feedback, they inspire confidence and respect. By fostering an environment where voices are heard, they empower their teams to thrive.


A Leader Creates a Safe Space

Effective leaders know that communication flourishes in a safe, supportive environment. They create spaces where team members feel comfortable to voice concerns, share ideas, and provide feedback without fear of retaliation or dismissal. This requires listening without prejudice, truly valuing every perspective, and acknowledging contributions.

By prioritizing psychological safety, leaders build trust and loyalty within their teams. People feel seen, heard, and respected—a foundation that inspires innovation and collaboration. When team members know their ideas matter, they are more likely to contribute boldly and meaningfully. They listen without any type of prejudice. A good leader understands they have the opportunity and ability  to respond differently to every situation.  Events to them are neutral but their response is crucial. Their response can save a situation or make it worse.

A Leader Listens Well

The art of listening is a cornerstone of leadership. Great leaders understand that events themselves and information are neutral; it’s their response that shapes the outcome. Listening allows them to fully assess a situation and respond instead of react to ensure that their decisions are thoughtful and impactful.

A skilled listener can defuse tension, provide clarity, and inspire confidence. Their ability to respond with empathy and precision can save a situation or escalate its success. Leaders who master active listening exemplify patience, humility, and a commitment to excellence—qualities that elevate their influence


A Leader Transforms Team Members into Leaders

True leaders are not just concerned with achieving goals; they’re committed to developing others. They see the potential in their team members and invest to nurture it. Through mentorship, encouragement, and delegation of meaningful responsibilities, great leaders help individuals build leadership qualities of their own.

When leaders empower team members to take on greater responsibilities, they prepare them to lead key aspects of projects or initiatives. This not only strengthens the team but also ensures the organization’s future success. Transforming followers into leaders is one of the most rewarding aspects of great leadership.

Speech coach team training helps team members learn how to communicate more effectively, together, to embrace their differences and needs. It provides insight into how we communicate differently, and learn mutual ways to help teams empathize, inspire and work closer together.

The Role of Body Language in Leadership Communication

While words are vital, body language often speaks louder. Leaders who master nonverbal communication convey confidence, clarity, and approachability. Here are key elements of body language to enhance leadership communication:

  • Eye Contact: Maintain steady eye contact to show engagement and build trust. It signals to your team that you value their input and are fully present.

  • Posture: A confident, upright posture exudes authority and openness. Avoid crossed arms or slouching, as these can signal defensiveness or disinterest.

  • Gestures: Purposeful hand movements emphasize key points and make your communication more dynamic and engaging. Be mindful of overuse, which can distract from your message.

  • Facial Expressions: A warm, approachable expression invites dialogue and collaboration. Smile and nod affirmatively to demonstrate active listening.

  • Tone of Voice: Your vocal tone can convey enthusiasm, empathy, or urgency. Varying your tone keeps your audience engaged and underscores the importance of your message.

By aligning your body language with your verbal communication, you create a powerful, cohesive message that resonates with your team.


The Power of “Lola’s Pledge”

A remarkable example of leadership principles in action is “Lola’s Pledge,” created to improve patient safety and reduce medical errors. While its focus is on healthcare, its core values—listening, empathy, and communication—resonate across industries. Here’s an excerpt:



Lola's Pledge

Communication Firefly
Communication Firefly

I will listen to my patients, families, and my team.

I listen to my intuition and escalate a case no matter the repercussions.

I will practice with a kind and gentle heart, treating my patients with dignity and respect.

I will take time at the bedside, getting to know my patient better.


These words embody the essence of leadership: listening deeply, speaking up when it matters most, and acting with empathy and integrity. Whether in healthcare or corporate settings, the values of Lola’s Pledge serve as a guiding light for leaders who want to make a difference.


Your Voice: The Key to Leadership

At the heart of all these principles is one essential truth: your voice is your most powerful leadership tool. When you communicate clearly, listen actively, and respond thoughtfully, you can inspire change, build strong relationships, and leave a lasting impact. Great leaders know this—and they use their voices not to command but to connect, uplift, and transform.

What steps will you take today to unlock the power of communication in your leadership journey?



 Finding The Right Speech Coach Can Help:

As you embark on your journey towards vocal recovery and maintenance for a healthier voice, guidance from a speech coach can help expedite your healing and teach you healthy habits to ensure your voice loss is in the past!

Your voice can be your most effective communication tool. When you educate yourself on habits to avoid and methods to strengthen your voice, you will gain confidence and mastery in communication skills that will enhance your leadership, the way you are perceived by others. You may see and improvement in both your personal and professional relationships.



Business Leaders in a meeting
Business leaders in a meeting



Cathy Motley-Fitch, founder of OnPitch Speech Coach is a Speech Coach based in Richmond, VA who teaches individuals, groups and teams, online and in person, how to speak effectively and engage, inspire and persuade others through their most powerful voice and dynamic presence!

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