Why Words Matter to Employees

I speak for a living. That means words really matter to me. They're how I get things done.

Without words - no speech.

I spend days preparing for each keynote address I deliver. And this isn't just speaking into a mirror. I read, write, listen, watch, and internalize words.

They're clearly important.

?? Come to think of it, many people rely on words.

Who else relies on words a lot?

??? Singers

??? Coaches

??? Teachers

??? Professors

??? Podcasters

??? Comedians

??? Dispatchers

??? Auctioneers

??? Broadcasters

??? Receptionists

You could argue that just about everyone relies on words in some fashion but with the work from home environment many people aren't communicating as much in person. Perhaps we feel words don't matter as much as they use to.

?? I don't feel that way at all.

How does a leader's words make a difference for their team?

I speak with plenty of leaders and most of them are kind people. They try to use nice words when they communicate. This creates a "comfortable" environment for the people they lead.

But is comfortable what's best for teams and businesses?

The Basic Effect of Your Words

I can't fault anyone who uses kind words to express their thoughts. You should always default there because most people will respond well if treated kindly.

You build good will. You gather feedback and you develop cordial relationships.

Your words, if nothing else, will teach people on your team how others should be treated. They'll likely respond with similar actions. If they don't, it's good sign that they aren't a good fit for your culture.

A great leader has this default but knows when it's time to be a bit sterner.        

These scenarios are those that indicate generosity is different than kindness (this comparison is for another edition of "Generosity is Good Business").

The Advanced Effect of Your Words

They say actions speak louder than words. I tend to agree. It's more important what you do than what you say. However, great leaders don't just ensure what's most important is done, they do a lot of other things too.

In other "words" (see what I did there?)...

Your words are a great supplement to your actions.

And that's exactly what I believe. Instead of thinking about your actions as what you have to do because you said something (following through on a promise), think of your words as what people recall when actions are happening.

In this way, words are more than just a tone setter for your workplace culture. They are an extra "umph" or piece of proof which shows people your work is significant and you execute with conviction.

Applying Your Words for Growth in Workplace

Growing a business is hard. There are many pillars you have to manage:

? Sales

? Finance

? Staffing

? Inventory

? Marketing

? Fulfillment

? Production

? Technology

...just to name a few.

Each of these things done well will help you grow your business, but none relies solely on a another for any length of time. Sure, a new technology can help sales, but you can only implement a new CRM system so often.

There is something, however, that can help you grow each area daily.

WORDS!

How to Use Growth Language

They key to building a generous workplace culture is ensuring that people feel like they are part of team striving for something great - something that requires a team. It would be impossible for anyone to do alone.

Growth language is language that isn't just kind or positive but it's collaborative, empowering, and ambitious.        

For example, you can say:

"Johnny, thank you for what you've done so far on this project. I believe it will turn out great. Here's what else needs to be done."

?? Say it aloud. Sounds great, right? I think so. But it could be done better. Try this:

"I think we're on to something, Johnny. We have a few more challenges to overcome and we're going completely change the way people experience our service. What do you think we should tackle next?"

?? This statement is more than nice to Johnny. It indicates he's not alone, he's capable of contributing more than just sweat equity, and it will make a difference.

This is growth language.

It doesn't matter if Johnny is in sales, HR, or the finance department (or any of the others listed above). He is more likely to have a fulfilling workplace experience when consistently hearing and seeing words structured this way.

Consistency

You must use growth language consistently to reap its benefits. The habit can develop rather quickly. Give it a week and you'll find yourself thinking differently as you communicate with your employees whether in person, remote, or hybrid.

The goal should be for it to be second nature for you and your team. Start today and it might be habitual by your next team meeting.

DM me if you want to talk through a scenario. It's worth the words. ??

P.S. Is anyone a real auctioneer. They use a lot of words! ??♂?

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