Effective Communication

[Coaching Lesson #3 from our Serving Leadership Development Program—Building Effective Teams, Phase 3]

Your ability to communicate effectively with others is a critical leadership skill. A leader who cannot communicate can never lead very well or for very long.

A key principle for becoming an effective communicator: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood” (Stephen Covey, possibly adapted from the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi). We win the right to be heard after we’ve effectively listened and we’re better equipped to respond once we’ve understood the context and intent of those with whom we’re communicating.

To have effective communication with others you must not only be able to effectively “transmit” or give others information, but you also must be willing to listen and “receive” information and feedback from others.

Case Study: Nathan & David—Example of Effective Communication (2 Samuel 12:1-25)

Nathan had a very difficult task. How could he confront David the king without making him angry, while at the same time helping him see his sin and getting him to repent?

Nathan’s ability to carefully craft his words in a non-confrontational way enabled David to hear the truth of his sin and repent.

Have you ever had a situation where you needed to confront someone about an issue and you ended up just making them angry? Why that result? How could you have said things differently?

Consider the following verses and how they apply to effective communication:

• Proverbs 18:13
• Proverbs 18:2
• Proverbs 12:18
• Matthew 15:18
• James 1:19

Discussion Questions:

1. Why is listening such an important skill for leaders? How can you become a better listener?
2. What are some of the best ways you can communicate (both sending and receiving messages) information with your team? When should it be face to face?
3. What can happen when there is a breakdown in communication between team members?