How Great Leaders Communicate with Kindness

From sending emails, taking video calls, and even chatting face to face, communication is the backbone of every workplace. How do great leaders ensure their daily communication is effective? They communicate with kindness.

As Sally Susman, Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Pfizer writes in the Harvard Business Review,  “Great leadership is all about connecting with people by making them feel seen and heard.” Her article, The Simple Power of Communicating with Kindness shows imbuing kindness into all your workday interactions, from day-to-day to important conversations, can pave the way for stronger relationships and a respected leadership presence.

Gracious Communication

Kindness and courtesy are key to gracious communication. When faced with tough conversations or challenging environments, starting with a small gesture of gratitude can work wonders. Simply saying, "Thank you so much for inviting me here today," with a genuine smile can disarm people and set a tone of courage and maturity. This simple act not only breaks down defensiveness but also fosters an environment where people feel safe to speak up without fear of retribution.

Give Credit Where it’s Due

People thrive on recognition and appreciation. Acknowledging and celebrating the efforts of others not only boosts morale but also increases employee engagement, trust, and loyalty. Practicing gratitude not only strengthens relationships but also enhances the leader's own reputation, showcasing maturity and self-confidence.

Provide Space & Clarity

It is always kind to let people prep for a conversation. By asking if it's a good time to talk and providing a sense of what you want to discuss, you show respect for their time and thoughts. This approach can help reduce defensiveness and create a more open and productive dialogue.

Being outward-focused in conversations and thinking about the other person's perspective can also help strengthen relationships and improve overall well-being. By practicing kindness in our day-to-day interactions, leaders can create a more positive and supportive work environment, leading to greater success for themselves and their teams. Read more about communicating with kindness at https://hbr.org/2023/07/the-simple-power-of-communicating-with-kindness.