Page 122 - The Voice of Authority

Greetings and introductions, too, can appear to those
watching from the sidelines like a photo op for the class
yearbook. “Carlos, I’m familiar with you through your
publications and have always admired your work from
afar.” “Nancy, it’s wonderful to meet you. You’ve been a
tremendous role model for all of us in the organization.”
“Tom, we’re deeply honored to be with you tonight on this
auspicious occasion to pay tribute to a man so richly de-
serving of this honor—a man who needs no introduction.”
If these words start to roll off your tongue, stop them.
Rephrase with a fresh thought that expresses authentic
feelings.

Ensure Confidentiality

“Loose lips sink ships” appeared on World War II posters,
signs, and barracks walls as a continual reminder to all that
information falling into the wrong hands could have dev-
astating effects. Idle comments can be almost as serious for
civilians as soldiers.
As a leader in the course of assigning projects, you learn
things about people, personalities, pet peeves, and priori-
ties. Being “in the know” can tempt some to “let it go” to
prove their powerful position. But people must feel safe
sharing confidentialities with you. For the person con-
cerned, one lapse can be the leak that drains credibility
from everything you say in the future.
Leaders don’t sink ships. They “batten down the
hatches” and keep their mouths shut.

The Likeability Factor

To be heard, you have to make people like you. You need
to create chemistry—with your staff as a manager, with

110 The Voice of Authority