In studying the highest levels of leadership, impact, and influence, several common aspects of effective communication become clear, especially on the 10th anniversary of Ronald Reagan’s passing, June 5. But even 10 years later and 25 years after his presidency, he is still known as the “Great Communicator,” says Dan Quiggle, author of Lead Like Reagan: Strategies to Motivate, Communicate, and Inspire (Wiley, June 2014).
Quiggle offers 5 more essential Reaganesque tips to use to increase your communication success:
11. Style. There are many effective methods of speaking, so find your unique style. Infuse your personality, your background, and your vocabulary into a personal cadence and rhythm of speaking that uniquely suits you. Practice articulating your vision. Ask for candid feedback and continue to hone your most effective style.
12. Simplify. Use small, short words that everyone can understand and remember. A simple message clearly articulated is much more effective than one that seeks to impress others with your knowledge but is not able to transfer any of that knowledge to others.
13. Solicit. Invite commitment and support. When you communicate, it should be clear what is being asked. Articulate your vision and outline the role you want others to play in fulfilling it. Do not assume they know what you are asking of them. You have to tell them —and then persuasively invite their support and their best efforts.
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14. Stories. Combine your content with original stories and personal examples that are meaningful to you and relevant to your vision. Stories can create far greater impact than just a conveyance of facts, ideas, or opinions. Chosen carefully, stories can affect others in powerful ways.
15. Smile. Nothing is more effective in engaging others than a genuine smile when appropriate. It brings a transparency to your message and conveys a warmth and kindness that has the potential to disarm even the harshest critic. Open the lines of communication by smiling —it is contagious!
“Although there is no magic formula for becoming the great communicator, in your own way you can formulate, articulate, and communicate your vision with greater success, effectiveness, and confidence,” says Quiggle. “As we see from Reagan, making memorable remarks is one thing, but those who are able to spur others to action, invite active participation, or cause a positive change in thinking or behavior truly understand the value and importance of communication. Words without action are without impact.
Whether you are communicating a vision to your company or speaking to your family, try to incorporate the example of Ronald Reagan to achieve greater impact, concludes Quiggle. “Choose your words carefully to not only inspire action, but to create a positive environment in which you can change your world and the world of those around you.”
Dan Quiggle, author of Lead Like Reagan, is the founder of The Quiggle Group, president and CEO of America’s Choice Title Company, and dean of faculty for the Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C. He began his professional career in the office of Ronald Reagan and learned leadership directly from the “Great Communicator” himself.
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