Strategies to improve the Leadership Conversation

A client once told me leadership is an ongoing conversation, and I realized how true that is. Everyday conversation plays a key role in leadership: it helps exchange ideas, fosters understanding, and supports self-reflection. While it may seem mundane, much of life’s beauty lies in the ordinary, like taking time for hobbies, rest, or sleep.

However, conversations can be frustrating when people aren't truly listening or building on what's being said. Too often, I’ve experienced “ping-pong” conversations where thoughts are tossed back and forth without real understanding. It's exhausting, and no one really knows what was said. Worse are monologues where one person dominates, leaving others to either nod off or tune out. These are the ultimate waste of time.

I’ve realized I’m not immune to “ping-pong” conversations, but I’ve learned to stop and just listen, which typically leads to better dialogue. Yet, many of these conversations still feel shallow. This matters because for leaders, poor communication can hinder success. If leadership conversations aren’t truly exchanging ideas, they become blocked, making it difficult to understand others or convey your thoughts.

I've noticed that more leaders are improving in this area, but it's still a common problem. When people don't feel heard or respected, they leave—especially top talent. Poor communication leads to stagnation, killing team spirit and innovation.

Here are some strategies that have helped me improve my conversations:

1. No monologues: I avoid dominating conversations unless I'm giving a talk.

2. Listen and wait: I listen carefully until I have a question or I'm asked one.

3. Quiet the mind and focus: Managing inner chatter helps me stay present and open during conversations.

4. Validate: I keep my comments concise and use my speaking time to validate and appreciate others.

5. Quality check: After conversations, I reflect on how they went and adjust where necessary.

If conversations flow with attention, they energize everyone involved. Most conflicts can be resolved this way, too. If someone is constantly talking, it may be a sign they’re not being heard enough. In such cases, it’s important to assess how to improve the conversation and allow for a more natural flow. Ultimately, reducing “me, me, me" in conversations leads to better connections and outcomes.

image: pexels-olia-danilevich-8145352 #leadershipconversation #listening #leading