5 barriers to effective leader communication—and how to overcome them
Top executives might clam up for any number of reasons: Maybe they fear bearing bad news, or established practices leave messaging to someone else. Try making these pivotal adjustments.
One frequent problem for PR pros is that their bosses don’t communicate well.
Here are five common causes of leaders’ poor communication, along with solutions:
1. They don’t understand its importance. Many leaders think they can delegate this function. After all, why have a head of communications if leaders have to communicate themselves? PR pros have to help company leaders understand that they must seen listening, learning and understanding—not just broadcasting their own opinions.
2. It’s too complicated. Often, leaders ignore the organization’s established values and instead focus on brand messaging. A good corporate message must be simple and powerful, so it can withstand multiple iterations, and it must reflect the leader’s beliefs. PR pros must persuade leaders to think and act in a more forthright way, not help them spin their way out of trouble.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today
Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.
