Leadership communication skills training is a great way to help leaders gain or sharpen the communication skills needed to be effective in a leadership role. Ineffective leadership can trigger dissatisfaction among staff, absenteeism and employee turnover, so it makes sense for people in leadership roles to take the time to pursue training in leadership communication skills. This type of training can also be beneficial for people not yet in leadership roles but hoping to be considered for future advancement. There are several different approaches to communication skills training.
In-person Workshops
One approach to communication skills training is through in-person workshops. These vary in length from a few hours to a day or more. Workshops may focus on different communication skills such as becoming more self-aware, improving cross-cultural communication, leading diverse teams, recognizing non-verbal communication, resolving conflict and giving both positive and negative feedback. You may also learn tips on how to stay calm under pressure and how to maintain an outward positive attitude.
Interactive Online Workshops
More and more training programs are being offered online, and today’s technology makes it easy to participate in interactive online workshops. When you use this approach to obtaining leadership communication skills training, you don’t have to worry about travel time or being away from your daily responsibilities. You may have the opportunity to interact with people who live in other states or even countries and learn from people who have had experiences that are quite a bit different from your own.
Learning Among Peers
Even without formal leadership training, working on leadership communication skills with your peers can benefit all of you. Set up recurring meetings where you can discuss challenges you have faced and brainstorm solutions. Improve communication skills using role playing and discussing what’s effective and what’s not. Practice active listening skills and get feedback and guidance from each other. You can also get together with peers to practice skills learned in online or in-person workshops.
Leadership Mentorship or Coaching
Working with a mentor or coach is one of the most effective ways to improve your communication skills. A coach can point out your strengths and what abilities may need improvement. With your mentor or coach, you can work on specific skills that you may need help with such as having difficult conversations, becoming more aware of your own body language. These skills may include posture and eye contact, along with vocal tone and how to express yourself more clearly and with self-confidence.
Self-Guided Learning
If formal leadership communication skills training isn’t available to you right now, take advantage of self-guided learning. There are plenty of books on the topic of leadership communication as well as online videos that can help you enhance your communication skills. Read books and articles on the topic or watch videos even when you only have a few minutes to devote to working on leadership skills. Using self-guided learning, you can also work on your written communication skills.
Keep Learning and Improving
Whenever you have the opportunity to take any form of leadership training, take advantage of it, regardless of what approach is used. Having great communication skills can help you to unite your team and inspire others. Enhancing your leadership capabilities with leadership communication skills training can make you much more effective in your role. Honing your skills can benefit you whether you’re brand new to leading a team or have been in a leadership role for many years. When it comes to leadership communication skills, there’s always more to learn.
Reach out to Peaceful Leaders Club to learn more about becoming a peaceful leader.
