Words Matter

A note from Gene...

Many years ago, when I was reasonably new to coaching, I developed a close working relationship with an extraordinarily charismatic leader. To this day, I often reflect back on the many lessons he taught me. One of them had to do with the importance of language, particularly the use of positive communication as a means of inspiring others. “I treat everyone who works for me as if they were the president of their own company,” he said, “and I tell them so.” He entrusted his employees to run their own businesses, always making himself available to their requests for support. “I know that as a leader, my words have a lot of impact. What you say matters a lot.” This article addresses some simple tips for using words as a means of inspiration.

Words Matter

"No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world." ~ Robin Williams

Every individual I work with has a unique personality and no two people are ever the same. But, I can’t help but notice that there are some themes that emerge amongst my clients, and one of them has to do with the things they say (or they hear others say) that ACTUALLY INSPIRE the people they work with. Here are some of the most common comments I hear out of the mouths of these leaders:

1. Good morning. How are you today? You would be amazed at how many people tell me that their managers walk in each morning without saying hello. A happy hello, sometimes accompanied by a brief conversation of a personal nature (e.g.” How’d your dog’s surgery go?” or “How are things working out for your mother in assisted living?”) can go a long day toward starting off the day with positive energy.
   

2. That’s my fault. If you were even partially involved with the creation of an employee’s problem – and even if that problem was partially created by your lack of involvement, own it. People are inspired by leaders who are willing to share responsibility when things don’t go well.
   

3. Can I get your advice? What’s your opinion? This one has to be my favorite. People feel valued if you truly care about what they think. But, you’ve got to really mean what you say, or it won’t work.
   

4. What can I take off of your plate? Do you have the capacity to do this now? Genuine concern with an employee’s workload – without that employee having to come to you to say he/she is overwhelmed – is not only caring but it enhances the employees’ commitment and motivation.
   

5. How can I help you? What do you need from me? Say this one often. And don’t just say it in passing. Dig in. Find out if anything or anyone is keeping them up at night. See how you can help without taking over.
   

6. Ha Ha Ha (LOL) Laughter is a sign of productivity. Happy employees are laughing together and fueling each other’s motivation. Be the lead on this one.
   

7. I couldn’t have done this without you. There is little that inspires an employee more than being told that his/her contribution is valued. Don’t forget to provide the details about what that contribution was and why it was so valued.
   

8. How am I doing? How could I do better? It’s a great idea to ask for this type of feedback. If you’ve developed trusting relationships with the people you work with and if they know you sincerely want their feedback, you’ll likely get important information that will foster your ability to inspire others.
   

9. Yes, go ahead and try it. I have complete faith in you. Just say “yes” as often as you can, even if you think the other person’s idea isn’t as good as yours. Let people be the president of their own companies. They’ll be far more motivated running their own companies than running yours.
   

10. Thank you. Last but not least, saying thank you is always uplifting and inspiring. And you don’t have to look for big things (like successful project outcomes) to express your gratitude. It’s a good idea to thank people for small things like covering a meeting or asking good questions.

You may have heard this from me before, but it’s worth repeating. One of your most important tasks as a leader is to rev the engine below you. If you’re not already doing it, try incorporating some of these words into your repertoire. The inspirational bang for the buck is huge.