On any given day, most C-level executives are faced with various issues and problems. The way in which they are handled, through a leader’s speech and actions, will ultimately determine the success of a team or project. Communicating ideas, solutions, and strategies effectively to a large or small audience is essential. This is where leadership voices come in to play – knowing how to tap into them at any given moment will help leaders communicate to various audiences and in any type of situation.

There are many different styles of leadership. Some leaders are the “command and control” type and others can be “closed and indirect,” preferring to avoid confrontation at all costs. It is a common misconception that the “command and control” type leader is the most successful and well respected – this is not always the case. What is important is to hone in and cultivate different leadership voices that communicate effectively, inspire others, and at the same time earn loyalty and respect from peers.

When thinking about the types of leadership voices one can tap into, it is also important for a leader to feel comfortable with their voice – keeping with their principles and morals and avoiding “imposter syndrome”. The voice chosen needs to be authentic and must consider the audience and subject matter being addressed. In the end, it is the leadership voice that others hear and react to positively or negatively. Here are few types of leadership voices and tips on how to cultivate them:

  • Keep the Voice of Character Constant

The voice of character represents who a person is to their core – reflecting their principles and ethics. While tapping into other voices throughout the day, the voice of character is the one voice that should remain constant and serves as an anchor that keeps one grounded.

  • Don’t Forget the Voice of Vision

Project deadlines and the problems that come with them can easily distract from the company vision and mission. Remember to tap into this voice when things turn hectic – it will help keep a team and project focused on what the company is striving for and will result in a successful outcome. Through their experience, C-level executives tend to see more of the bigger picture – and a visionary voice is necessary when expressing this to others.

  • Set daily reminders to keep a team or direct report focused on the company vision.
  • Share vision and strategy with others.
  • Be transparent on decision-making criteria.
  • Tune into the Voice of Clarity

Projects that fail are often linked to a lack of clarity. Each task associated with a project needs to have an owner. Making sure the owner is clear on the task/project and the expected outcome is vital to its success.

  • Meet with each direct report before a project starts to review clarities and what the big wins will be for them and the project.
  • Periodically come back and make sure the focus is still there.
  • Voice of Curiosity

It is common for leaders to underestimate those they chose to be on a team or project – forgetting they were chosen for their experience and intelligence. It’s always in a project’s best interest to be open to the ideas of team members before coming to a final decision. In cases of communication issues within a team – using a voice of curiosity will mean hearing out the other person – being the listener. It may help diffuse the situation.

Leaders do not have all the answers and some of the best decisions are based on multiple perspectives. Collaboration and inclusion are vital.

Would you like more insight on how to refine your leadership voice? Contact me for more information.