STEM managers often get stuck because they present their work in the same way to everyone. The result is that executives switch off while technical peers nod along.
Strong leaders know that communication must travel upwards. What resonates with senior stakeholders is not the process but the impact.
Here is the difference:
1) Technical update: “The system achieved 99.9% uptime last quarter due to infrastructure optimisation.”
2) Executive message: “Our reliability improvements saved the business an estimated 200 hours of lost productivity.”
Both are true. But only one secures influence at the decision-making table.
STEM leaders who rise are the ones who can translate complexity into clarity. They show not just what was achieved but why it matters for the organisation.
Communication that travels up is not about oversimplifying. It is about making your expertise relevant to the people who decide your future.
Empathy starts with understanding. By taking a moment to see things from another person’s perspective, you can build stronger relationships, improve communication, and create a more positive workplace. Read more to discover how empathy can transform your interactions.
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