It’s not just what leaders say; it’s also how they say it.
A version of this article appeared in the September 2009 issue of Harvard Business Review.
How to Use Language That Employees Get
It’s not just what leaders say; it’s also how they say it. In our research on executives who have instilled a great sense of purpose in others, introduced powerful brands, or managed successfully in turbulent times, we’ve found that they often use terms and metaphors that resonate with their employees. Walt Havenstein, the CEO of […]
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To communicate in a way that resonates with your workers, you’ll have to get to know them first.
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New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Writing Skills Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Writing Skills. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Capture your audience's attention with smarter emails, Slacks, memos, and reports.