This is a guest by Jasmine Lloyd. She is in her last year of college and looks forward to entering the business world after graduation. When not studying she is often blogging for Essay Edge or working on her writing skills.
There are any number of skills that aspiring leaders may want to include in their skill set. They probably want to include organization skills. Really, who can lead without being organized? They would also likely include assertiveness, vision, and skills to name a few. But if you look at really effective leaders you will find that they are great communicators as well.
The argument about whether leaders are born or made rages on, even here in this blog. But of all the skills that can be taught, communication skills are certainly one of them. Many mistakenly assume that because they are good speakers that they are good communicators. That is a bad assumption. Communicating and talking are not the same thing. Communication involves much more, including listening, watching, deciphering, and not the least, writing.
Writing ability is an often un-noticed skill of effective leaders. In today’s business world, much of the communication that takes place is through reports, letters, emails, and even texts. A large portion of a leader’s thoughts and directions are transferred through other means than direct conversation. As a leader, you can’t afford not to improve upon your ability to write. Below are some tips to improve this skill.
Think about what you’ll write. Just as you take time to prepare for any meeting or conversation, take time to think about what you will write. It is important to have a clear goal in mind. Deliver it in a message that is clearly understood.
Consider your audience. To whom are you writing? A message to your cohorts will likely be different than one to those working for you. Take into consideration the viewpoint, subject knowledge, and personality of the person or group you are addressing. Think about how the message will be received or if your objective will be clearly received.
Respond to feedback. Before you can respond to feedback you have to encourage your audience to give it. Don’t blame the recipient if they have questions or concerns or ask for clarification on topics you thought were crystal clear. Use feedback as a measure of the effectiveness of your writing.
For many communicators, expressing themselves through speech is far easier than in written form. A good communicator picks up on the subtle nuances given off by those they talk to, which helps them determine if their message is getting across. This sort of on-going feedback isn’t always possible when communicating through writing. As a result, a leader’s ability to get their message across in writing is a major factor in their becoming an effective communicator.
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