Leaders as Effective Explainers

From an article titled, Great Communicators Are Great Explainers:

Explanation is a key attribute of leadership communications. Leaders know to inject their communications with verve and enthusiasm as a means of persuasion, but they also need to include an explanation for the excitement. What does it mean and why are we doing it are critical questions that every leader must answer with straightforward explanations.

Author John Baldoni continues with three ways to become an effective explainer:

1. Define what it is. The purpose of an explanation is to describe the issue, the initiative, or the problem. For example, if you are pushing for cost reductions, explain why they are necessary and what they will entail. Put the cost reductions into the context of business operations. Be certain to explicate the benefits. [BZ note: Don't overlook defining the underlying rationale, or "why", behind your explanation -- it not only helps others to properly understand what you're saying, it also provides a over-arching context for how you see the issue. So don't just explain that there is a need for cost reductions, explain why the need is legitimate before going on to your solution, next steps, explanation, etc.]

2. Define what it isn't. Be clear to define the exclusions. For example, returning to our cost reduction issue, if you are asking for reductions in costs, not people, be explicit. Otherwise employees will assume they are being axed. Leave no room for assumptions. [BZ note: I particularly like this one. Just as with contracts, it's best to read them twice -- the first time to see what's intentionally (or otherwise) included in the terms and conditions; the second time to see what's intentionally (or otherwise) excluded.]

3. Define what you want people to do. This becomes an opportunity to issue the call for action. Establishing expectations is critical. Cost reductions mean employees will have to do more with less; explain what that will entail in clear and precise terms. Leaders can also use the expectations step as a challenge for people to think and do differently. Your explanation then takes on broader significance. [BZ Note: Those who know me know that I'm not a big fan of using the word expectations -- I much prefer the word requirements. So, while 'establishing expectations may, indeed, be critical, I believe that 'articulating the requirements' is more appropriate ... and even more helpful.]

This said, I'd like to add a fourth facet to the recommendation:

4. Listen for how your explanation lands. Effective Communication can be defined as "Insuring that the message you intended to be heard is identical to the message that actually was heard." As such, it's advisable to "check in" with your audience to insure that your explanation was, indeed, understood as intended and if not, respond accordingly.