Strong leadership isn’t just about your presence; it’s about how you speak. To convey power, use these five techniques to elevate your communication, establish your authority, and command respect.
Focus on action. When explaining decisions, choose language that drives forward momentum. Instead of listing options, state your choice and outline next steps. Clear direction signals confidence and decisiveness.
Think big. Don’t get stuck in metrics. Step back and connect details to a larger purpose. Speaking abstractly—about trust, growth, or impact—helps others see you as a visionary, not just an operator.
Take the hit. Deflecting blame weakens your credibility. When things go wrong, own the outcome and explain how you’ll fix it. Accountability shows strength and builds trust.
Assess others. Ask thoughtful questions in interviews, pitches, or meetings. Demonstrating discernment positions you as a leader with options.
Direct the spotlight. In meetings, don’t default to imposing your perspective on the team. Instead, guide the conversation, ask strategic questions, and synthesize decisions. Leading requires steering the conversation, not simply speaking the most.
