One of the fastest ways to get noticed as a leader is to communicate like one. Great CEOs aren’t just experts in their fields—they’re also masters of communication, able to inspire, persuade, and connect with people at every level. John Maxwell said it best: “The number one skill a leader should have to be successful? To be a great communicator.” But you don’t have to wait until you’re in the corner office to start speaking, thinking, and acting like a top executive. Here’s how you can start now:
1. Be Clear, Concise, and Confident
Top executives are direct. They know how to get to the heart of the matter without unnecessary detail or filler. When you communicate, aim for clarity. Share your message concisely and with conviction. This doesn’t mean being blunt or dismissive, but rather valuing people’s time and demonstrating a deep understanding of your subject.
Action Step: Practice summarizing your key points in 1-2 sentences before going into detail. Whether you’re in a meeting or writing an email, get straight to the value of your message and speak confidently, even if it’s a challenging topic.
2. Adjust Your Communication Style to Fit Your Audience
Great leaders understand that one style doesn’t fit all. How you communicate with a supervisor may differ from how you approach a team member or a client. CEOs are adaptable—they read the room, gauge the context, and adjust their tone, detail level, and formality to make their message resonate.
Action Step: Before any interaction, quickly assess your audience. Ask yourself: What’s their level of understanding? What are their priorities? Then tailor your approach. For example, be concise and results-focused with executives, while offering more context and support with your team members.
3. Listen More Than You Speak
Effective communication isn’t just about what you say; it’s about listening actively. CEOs listen for insights, concerns, and ideas, and they often let others speak first to understand different perspectives. This approach not only improves decision-making but also builds trust and respect.
Action Step: Practice active listening in every interaction. Paraphrase what others say to confirm your understanding, and resist the urge to jump in with your own thoughts. Showing that you value others’ input will set you apart as a thoughtful leader.
4. Think Strategically and Speak from a High-Level Perspective
CEOs focus on the bigger picture. They speak in terms of strategy, growth, and vision, even in everyday conversations. By framing your ideas around long-term goals and company-wide impact, you’ll position yourself as someone who thinks beyond the day-to-day tasks.
Action Step: Start framing your suggestions and responses with broader company goals in mind. When discussing a project or task, explain how it aligns with the team’s or organization’s vision. This small shift in language will showcase your strategic mindset.
5. Communicate Calmly in High-Stress Situations
Top leaders are unshakable when tensions rise. They bring calm, clarity, and perspective when it’s needed most. Their ability to remain composed under pressure reassures those around them and fosters a culture of stability and trust.
Action Step: Practice breathing techniques or mental resets before high-stress situations. Remember that your calm response can influence others. The next time you face a stressful moment, take a deep breath, stay measured in your speech, and focus on solutions instead of the problem.
6. Show Empathy and Respect in Every Interaction
CEOs know that relationships are critical. They communicate with empathy, respect, and consideration, regardless of who they’re speaking with. This respect for others’ viewpoints and emotions builds rapport and strengthens their influence across the organization.
Action Step: Practice showing empathy by asking questions that invite input, such as, “What are your thoughts on this?” or “How do you feel about this approach?” Even when discussing difficult topics, show respect for the other person’s experience and perspective.
Final Thoughts
If you want to reach the top, don’t wait until you get there to start communicating like a leader. Embrace these strategies today to elevate your presence and influence. When you communicate with clarity, adapt your style, and lead with empathy, you’ll naturally start to stand out and others will start to see you as a leader well before your title says so.
