Three Ways To Lead Without A Long Shadow
As leaders, everyone's looking at how they can increase their effectiveness and influence.
But there's another part of leadership that is often overlooked.
How do you increase your influence without casting a long shadow?
I’ve found three simple tools and techniques that can help. here are some ways to lead.
Minto Principles
The first is “Minto Principles.”
Barbara Minto, a former McKinsey consultant, developed an approach to structuring communication that starts with the key message and then provides the supporting points.
It's a simple idea, but a powerful one.
Instead of taking people through every detail before explaining the point, start with the answer. Then provide two or three supporting reasons.
This helps people understand the “so what” before getting into the detail.
Rule Of Threes
The second is the “Rule of Threes.”
Ask yourself three questions.
What are the three things I want people to remember?
What are the three actions I want them to consider?
What are the three things I want them to take away?
We often give people too much information. In doing so, the important points can get lost.
Three gives your message structure and makes it easier to remember.
Precision Questioning
The third is “Precision Questioning.”
One of the best ways to create more engaging and insightful dialogue is to ask better questions.
This isn't about asking more questions. It's about asking sharper questions.
What are we actually trying to achieve?
What do we mean by that?
What are we assuming?
How do we know that is true?
What are the implications?
So, what are we going to do about it?
This approach helps people think rather than simply respond. It can create better conversations, better decisions and greater ownership.
For me, these three tools have a common theme - Be clear. Be concise. Ask better questions.
Leadership influence does not always come from saying more.
Sometimes it comes from making it easier for others to understand, contribute and act.
Want to learn more? Reach out for a chat.
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