There is a leader within you. In fact, I believe the traits of four distinct leaders are hard-wired into your DNA. Whether you believe it or not, you were born with the capacity to lead others. Some people choose to ignore this ability, while others do what they can to develop and harness it. It’s my desire to help as many people as possible tap into this extraordinary gift. Our families, teams, and communities are desperately hungry for empowering leaders.
One way that you can recognize a leader is through their language. Leaders speak differently. They understand the power of words and utilize them to improve the people they come into contact with. Leaders are people we want to listen to because the words they use have been carefully chosen in order to have a positive effect.
So, what do leaders sound like?
Let’s take a look at the language of leadership by examining each of the four leadership styles that exists inside each of us. We’ll start with a leadership style called the Visionary.
Visionary leaders are idea generators. They carry an internal picture of a better future, and they can’t wait to see it come to fruition. They eagerly share that vision with others. But beyond simply dreaming of a better tomorrow though, a Visionary also carries a sense of what it takes to get there. They see not just potential, but the steps necessary to get from point A to point B.
The Visionary’s strength is purpose. They remind us why we’re here, what we’re fighting for, and why it’s a worthy cause. Their language tends to focus on the following:
Strategy – Visionaries quickly identify the goals that matter. They communicate the big picture plan that drives the team.
Inspiration – Visionaries paint a vivid picture of what the team is trying to accomplish. They tap into our inner desire to be part of something bigger than ourselves. They also help us see that every job matters.
Team-building – Visionaries help us see how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together. They see not just the big picture, but how each of us rely on each other in order to create it.
Ultimately, Visionaries communicate with the intention of engagement. They’re happy when the team, along with every individual, is maximizing their potential.
How Visionaries communicate:
* They approach the job with imagination and originality.
* They identify the core elements of an issue.
* They remain open to new ideas and ways of doing things.
* They communicate how each person’s job performance impacts the organization.
* They inspire each person to achieve their full potential.
Things Visionaries say:
“Here’s the plan.”
“Here’s why it is important.”
“Let’s do this!”
Questions Visionaries ask:
“What’s missing?”
“What if?”
“What’s next?”
When Visionaries speak, they touch our soul. They lead us to dream and leave us inspired. Take a moment and think about your communication style. Do you actively share your vision of the future? Do your words encourage team-work? Do people leave you inspired to do their best work?
That’s how leaders communicate.
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