Understanding the distinction between ‘communication strategy’ and ‘communication tactics’ is not just a matter of corporate jargon but a crucial aspect of honing how effective you are as a leader.
How Strategy and Tactics shape your approach to communication.
As a leader, your communication strategy is not just a plan but your blueprint for realizing your long-term goals.
For instance, meet Gerry, a meticulous CEO who believes in the power of clear communication.
His strategy?
Build a team culture rooted in transparency, collaboration, and efficiency. (Hint, you can adopt this one, it’s pretty universal 🙂 )
How did he bridge the gap between strategy and reality?
With clear tactics.
As Gerry, my client would say,
“Crafting beautiful strategies may earn nods of approval from the boardroom, but it’s the execution—the tactics—that truly separate the wheat from the chaff.”
Tactics—the mundane but practical tools that breathe life into your strategic vision are not as sexy as Strategy but tactics are genius in their simplicity.
My favorite communication tactic is creating your Personal User Manual for your team.
Gerry, armed himself with a document that outlined how his team (me included) should communicate with him. From preferred channels to pet peeves to emergency protocols, it was all there.
And the most satisfying part?
When a team member unintentionally sent Gerry a ton of emails on a Saturday, Gerry’s Personal User Manual came to the rescue. This alignment of tactics with strategy averted a potential communication breakdown, ensuring smoother interactions moving forward.
When Gerry didn’t respond, the team member consulted his manual and discovered that Gerry maintains an open calendar, diligently noting all commitments to keep his team informed of his whereabouts.
Notably, he had designated that day for “babysitting,” prompting her to recognize the significance of honoring Gerry’s boundaries on weekends when he cares for his grandchild.
Brilliant if you ask me!
In addition to the Personal User Manual, other cool tactics for personal leadership communication might include:
- Hosting regular one-on-one meetings to provide feedback and support professional development. (Make these sacred.)
- Leading by example, embodying complex principles like active listening and empathy.
- Conveying the vision, values, and goals compellingly.
- Seeking feedback from the team and being open to adjustments.
Is your personal communication strategy and your tactics aligned with your goals?
With a strategic mindset and a dash of tactical finesse, you can improve your leadership communication and enhance your effectiveness. If not for you, do it for your team.
With love,
Mari Carmen
