Leaders who inspire their teams understand the significance of their words and the impact they have on their colleagues’ morale and performance. A subtle yet profound shift in language that can elevate leadership is replacing directives such as, “Why don’t you …” with more collaborative terms such as: “May I suggest?”
This seemingly small alteration can create an environment of respect, open-mindedness, and enhanced teamwork.
As an executive coach, I get to work with a lot of smart leaders. One fellow I coached had a computer science PhD from Stanford, another an advanced physics degree from MIT. I’ve worked with enough Ivy League MBAs and JDs to fill the starting lineup and bench of the Chelsea Football Club. Add to these folks’ impressive educational credentials, they often have decades of experience in their respective fields. All of this means when they walk into a room, they are often the smartest person there.
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