Communication and Leadership.

Leadership is more than a title or position—it’s about influence, trust, and the ability to inspire others. At the heart of great leadership lies the ability to foster meaningful conversations. Leaders set the tone for their organisations, not just through their vision but through their everyday interactions. The way leaders engage in conversations can either build trust and clarity or create confusion and disengagement.

The Role of Conversations in Leadership

Too often, leadership is associated with “communication” in the traditional sense—one-way directives, instructions, or announcements. However, true leadership thrives on conversations—two-way, honest, and respectful exchanges that invite dialogue, feedback, and connection.

Conversations are about listening as much as speaking. They involve sharing ideas, hearing perspectives (even uncomfortable ones), and creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued. Leaders must recognise that conversations are the foundation of trust and collaboration within their teams.

Leaders Must Be Open to Feedback

A critical aspect of leadership is accountability—not just for others but for themself. Leaders must create an environment where they can be respectfully called out when their behaviours are inappropriate or their behaviours negatively impact other people. This isn’t about criticism; it’s about growth and clarity. When leaders model openness to feedback, they send a powerful message: no one is above learning or improvement.

Equally important is a leader’s responsibility to call out inappropriate behaviours in others. By addressing these issues promptly and respectfully, leaders ensure that everyone understands what is acceptable and what is not. This clarity helps build a culture where trust and respect thrive.

Emerging Leaders: The Challenges of “Sink or Swim”

Many emerging leaders are thrown into leadership roles without adequate preparation or guidance. While some rise to the challenge, many struggle—not because they lack potential but because they lack support. These leaders often want to succeed but may not know what great leadership looks like or how to navigate difficult situations, such as addressing inappropriate behaviours within their teams.

Organisations must recognise that emerging leaders need mentorship and coaching to develop these skills. Without this support, even the most promising leaders may feel like they’re failing, despite their best efforts.

Building a Culture of Trust Through Conversations

1. Encourage Two-Way Dialogue: Leaders should prioritise conversations over monologues. This means actively listening to team members’ perspectives and being open to feedback—even when it’s hard to hear.
2. Address Behaviours Respectfully: Whether it’s their own actions or those of others, leaders must address behaviours that negatively impact individuals or teams. Ignoring such issues erodes trust; addressing them builds clarity and respect.
3. Be Human: Conversations should be honest, empathetic, and respectful. Leaders don’t need to have all the answers—they just need to show they care and are willing to listen.
4. Learn From Feedback: If a leader unintentionally upsets someone through their behaviour, it’s only wrong if they choose not to change once they’re aware of the impact.

The Impact of Leadership Through Conversations

Leadership isn’t just about setting direction; it’s about creating an environment where people feel heard, valued, and supported. Conversations are the cornerstone of this environment—they build trust, resolve conflicts, and foster collaboration.

When leaders embrace conversations as a tool for growth—both for themselves and their teams—they set the stage for success at every level of the organisation. By modelling openness to feedback and addressing inappropriate behaviours with clarity and respect, leaders create a culture where everyone knows what is expected—and everyone feels empowered to contribute their best.

Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. And connection starts with conversation.