“Communication “Don’t be afraid to say – I don’t know”
So often we as leaders want to have all the answers or 90% clarity before we engage and communicate.
I supposed it has to do with not wanting to be wrong or being afraid to look stupid. COVID19 is so unpredictable; waiting for “certainty” might be in 2021.
These pointers have always helped me to navigate tricky communication situations:
· Be as transparent as possible – if something is going on that we can’t communicate, then provide a date by when we can📆
· Focussing on facts and what I do know for certain
· Sharing openly what I don’t know or am uncertain about
· Sharing possible outcomes, but only if I know that they are real courses of action
· Using a parking lot for the uncertain topics where we have no idea about the outcomes. Too much speculation leads to fear. 🅿️
· Being true to myself and honest when answering questions – even saying “this is my personal opinion”
· The next communication date
· Always communicate with empathy and consideration for how other individuals might be feeling💗
What other tips do you have for leaders to help with communication ❓
I understand the pressures facing finance professionals: Prioritisation, career progression, leadership & people dynamics.
For a third of my career, I was operating at only half my potential. I was differentiating myself through my analytical mind. I had not yet learnt how to be a transformational and inspiring people leader. I realised from working with thousands of leaders for some big brands; Investec, KPMG and BMW, that greater impact can be found through a focus on people and leadership dynamics. I am an experienced C-Suite executive, non-executive director, entrepreneur, author and international speaker with more than 22 years of corporate experience. As the former CFO and CHRO of BMW UK Ltd. and BMW Financial Services Ltd., I understand the financial language of business, strategy, and risk and the pressures facing finance professionals. My vision is to help organisations and leaders to engage their people effectively. I have led and implemented award-winning cultural transformation programmes in multiple industries. I published my first book, “The Authenticity Dilemma Resolved®” in November 2016; which captures my experiences of working with thousands of leaders to increase their confidence and help them bring more of their real selves to all interactions to become inspiring, transformational leaders. I am passionate about helping to develop the generation of finance leaders; who have the mindset to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
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