Business Case Studies & Business Publications

Think Before You Speak

Powell, Elizabeth ...

Technical Note

Think Before You Speak

Powell, Elizabeth A.

BC-0297 | Published January 2, 2024 | 5 pages Technical Note

Collection: Darden School of Business

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The expression "think before you speak" brings up a question that this technical note answers: What should someone think about before communicating as a leader? This note recommends taking an audience-centered approach. Through a short vignette, the reader puts themselves in the shoes of a team member whose director has just arrived late to a meeting. An analysis illustrates that the reader's reaction and interpretation are a result of not only the director's immediate words and nonverbal communication, but also the reader's own independent observations and inferences. This analysis suggests that leaders think more holistically before they speak. The note then outlines a practical Attune-Engage-Model thought process through which the leader considers how to (1) attune to themselves, others, and the situation; (2) engage intentionally with stakeholders; and (3) model values, trust, and credibility in the moment and over time. This note is recommended as early reading in a management communication or leadership communication course. It serves as a prelude to or companion of the introduction of communication strategy.

- Take an audience-centered approach to leadership communication - Think holistically about the way people see and respond to their leaders - Adopt the Attune-Engage-Model process as a leadership communication thought process - Prepare for crafting a mindful communication strategy