ALL IT TAKES IS WORDS

Can words go a long way in your success?

As a leader,you define not only your own perceptions by your words but you also impact those around you. One can always begin with oneself to bring a change. Using appreciative leadership vocabulary will take you places with the people you influence. Positive and negative words, both have astounding powers to build realities. What you choose today to communicate makes all the difference. Let’s look at some of the things we say (or don’t say) and how they are impacting our teams.

1. We can pull it off – You are a part of the team, in good and bad. When times get tough, continue to be part of the team and leave the blame game aside.

2. Let’s get going – Take decision. Take lots of decisions infact. Make your team part of the decision making process and get rolling.

3. How can I help you? – Just asking this helps a great deal. It improves the momentum and brings up training and coaching needs.

4. More of “Yes” , “Our” and “ We” and less of “No”, “My” and “I”.

5. What’s next? Every now and then, ask what’s next to keep your team motivated and engaged. This question most often brings very enlightening insights.

6. “How are you?” Really? This simple, isn’t it a clichéd question? Yes, it is and Yes it works. Say these words and then really listen. Remember your team has a life outside work too and may be celebrating or mulling over something. Become a small and thoughtful part of it.

If you have to drop one thing to make your vocabulary more positive and powerful, drop “I don’t have time.” Or “I am very busy.” When you say this, all a listener hears is that I am a very important person and you aren’t! Say this less and get more done.

What would you add to this list? What does your leader say that inspires you the most? Understand the power of language. All it takes is words after all.