Page 44 - Twenty Four Lessons for Mastering Your New Role

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Always speak your mind

Muzzle your mouth

The most dynamic communicators don’t say much.
Instead of trying to talk louder and more forcefully than every-
one else in the room, charismatic managers grab everyone’s atten-
tion by treating their words as a precious resource. They only speak
when they have something to say.
Silence enhances your power. By keeping quiet, listening well,
and expressing your points in the fewest words possible, you gain a
persuasive edge. Your employees will know that every word counts—
and they’ll give you their undivided attention as a result.
Plagued by nervousness and uncertainty, some new managers talk
too much. They’ll repeat simple instructions to the point where
employees feel insulted. They’ll tell long, rambling anecdotes that
don’t serve a clear purpose to advance the conversation. They will
interrupt speakers and change the subject. Every time this happens,
it threatens to drive away employees who may think, “This person isn’t
interested in listening to me, so why should I listen to him or her?”
To muzzle your mouth, you need to appreciate the power of
silence. That’s easier said than done. Many people grow self-con-
scious during moments of silence in a conversation. Managers may
worry that they appear unsure of themselves unless they always have
something to say.
By keeping silent, managers often communicate loud and clear.
A pregnant pause can convey approval, disapproval, concern, curios-
ity, or a myriad of other thoughts. It depends on the context of the
conversation, your timing, and your facial expression.

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