News: Performance Management
Leadership training 'must emphasise communication'
06 May 2009
Leadership training should explore methods for managers to pass on bad news gently but effectively, an expert asserts.
Chris Witt, author of Real Leaders Don't Do PowerPoint, tells Sales and Marketing that failing to provide this information is not an option, so executives must learn to perform this function.
He says the key lesson for managers is to speak in a credible management style, ensuring that the message remains consistent with employees' pre-existing awareness of the speaker's values, actions and commitments.
The message should be tailored to the audience and must be spoken at the right time and place, he asserts.
Mr Witt states: "Letting people know the general purpose of the meeting will give them a heads-up and brace them for bad news … don't provide false reassurances."
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development recently told People Bulletin that communication abilities, which could be fostered by leadership training, are essential to successful teamwork.
