Authentic Communications: Breaking the Halo of Distrust

• Tweet
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  Pin It
  

• Tweet
• 
  

Last week, President Obama delivered an address in Cairo,   Egypt, titled “A New Beginning,” to help start a new chapter of engagement between the United States and Muslim world. He boldly addressed the range of issues that have caused tensions and challenged preconceptions. Every phrase, nuance and gesture carried purpose and was delivered with candor.

When the news anchors began analyzing the speech and interviewing people from around the world that tuned-in to this event– I realized that this one man, in less than an hour’s time, was able to transform the mindset of millions. Now, that’s talent. But it is also the result of a speech designed with authenticity sitting at its core.

Now more than ever, leaders of government or corporations must communicate authentically to create closer connections with their audiences. As a society, we have witnessed the meltdown of the financial markets, government bailouts and a lot of poor judgment among world and business leaders. As a result, leaders are challenged to break the halo of distrust that exists among their stakeholder groups.

So, how as PR professionals do we help leaders of companies break the halo of distrust and make stronger connections with their employees, customers, partners and shareholders?

I think the key for leaders in today’s society is authentic communications. Organizations should closely examine how the leadership team communicates and identify the best style, tone and delivery method based on a number of external factors, including the social, political and economic environments. By categorizing leadership communications into four distinct styles – Charismatic, Direct, Transformational and Pragmatic –executives can better understand what type of communicator her or she is most like and how his or her style impacts the audience . While there is no one right way to communicate – it is important to adopt a style and tone that best resonates with stakeholders at any given point in time.

Whether it’s a speech to millions of people or an intimate gathering of colleagues – authentic communications help make stronger, memorable connections with stakeholders that have far reaching results. Research has shown that a trusted leader can build a culture of respect among employees, inspire confidence among key stakeholder groups, and help to establish a trusted brand.

What are some of the other best authentic communications you’re seeing from leaders of government or business? Who’s doing it all wrong?