“Influence is not just what you say, it’s how you say it and how you show it.”
As leaders, we often focus on the content of our message, but the *delivery* is just as important. To truly guide a conversation, you need to align your words, voice, and non-verbal communication (NVC) to project confidence and clarity.
Three Ways to Align Your Message:
1. Words: The Foundation
• Use simple, impactful language.
• Avoid jargon when speaking to non-technical audiences: translate your expertise into relatable terms.
• End your statements with conviction, not questions.
2. Voice: The Amplifier
• Vary your pitch and tone to keep your audience engaged.
• Use a slower pace to emphasise key points.
• Lower your tone slightly at the end of sentences to project authority.
3. Non-Verbal Communication: The Reinforcer
• Smile when appropriate. It makes you more approachable and trustworthy.
• Use gestures to underline your words, like open palms to signify honesty.
• Lean slightly forward when making a key point to show engagement.
One technical leader shared: ‘When I started aligning my words, voice, and body language, my ability to influence others skyrocketed.’
Your Challenge:
Choose one upcoming conversation this week to practise aligning your delivery. Focus on one element, whether it’s your tone, gestures, or word choice, and notice the difference it makes.
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