There are phrases you often hear in leadership circles – and they are still complete nonsense. “We just need to communicate better.” Aha. Sounds great. But what exactly does that mean? Sending emails with “Please provide a quick response”? Introducing a few meetings with “Let’s speak openly” (where, of course, no one actually speaks openly)? Or simply turning what everyone already thinks into fancy PowerPoint graphics?
No. Communication is not a decorative element; it is the foundation of good leadership. Leading without clear communication is like trying to conduct an orchestra while throwing the sheet music into the air and hoping the musicians “somehow get in sync.”
But what defines excellent communication in leadership? For that, we need an image. Not a rigid model with triangles and circles – but something alive, adaptable, and multifaceted. Something that continuously rearranges itself with every turn and yet always remains harmonious. A kaleidoscope.
The Leadership Kaleidoscope:
Communication with Structure and Flexibility
Imagine a kaleidoscope. You turn it, and with each movement, the colors and patterns rearrange themselves. Yet, the overall effect remains harmonious. That’s how communication in leadership works: it must constantly adapt, never be rigid, yet follow principles that ensure clarity and impact.
In our Leadership Kaleidoscope, there are four key aspects:
Clarity: Say what you mean.
A sentence that no one understands even after five minutes of explanation is not a sentence – it’s a riddle. Leaders need clarity in their language: no convoluted phrases, no management jargon, just real, meaningful messages. Clarity also means setting expectations, not just hoping that the team “somehow knows what’s meant.”
Empathy: Understanding instead of just broadcasting.
Communication is not a one-way street with a sign that says, “This way to the truth.” Listening is just as important as speaking. Those who communicate with empathy understand how the other person thinks, can adopt different perspectives, and adjust their style without losing authenticity. Some need a short, concise message, while others require a detailed explanation. Recognizing this makes communication more effective.
Openness: Transparency instead of tactical silence.
Nothing destroys trust faster than information gaps. Openness doesn’t mean that leaders have to reveal every tiny detail of company strategy – but they must provide their employees with a sense of direction. Because those who don’t know where the journey is going will drive with the handbrake on.
Feedback: The resonance chamber of communication.
Communication is always a dialogue. Leadership is not just about talking but also about establishing a feedback culture where both criticism and praise are natural. And not just in an annual “development conversation,” but as an ongoing exchange that provides security and fosters growth.
Expanding the Kaleidoscope:
Communication Is More Than Just Technique
In addition to these four aspects, there are other mirrors in the kaleidoscope that complete the picture:
Body language & voice: How you speak is often more important than what you say. A clear message loses its impact if it is delivered with an insecure voice or an averted gaze.
Humor & ease: Seriousness is important – but those who communicate without lightness quickly seem unapproachable. Humor builds connections and defuses tension in difficult conversations.
Situational awareness: Communication is about timing. Sometimes a quick decision is needed; sometimes a longer conversation is required. Good leaders know when which type of communication is appropriate.
Not Just “Nice to Have”:
Communication as a Leadership Instrument
Good communication is not a soft skill that one “could also improve.” It is the central tool for successful leadership. Those who master it build trust, motivate their teams, and provide clarity in a world that is often uncertain enough.
And the best part? Like a kaleidoscope, good communication remains in motion. It changes with every situation, with every person, with every challenge. But as long as the core principles hold, a consistent, powerful picture emerges time and time again.
So turn your kaleidoscope – and take a close look at the patterns you create. Because they determine how you are perceived as a leader.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Henriette Frädrich is a keynote speaker, moderator, and storytelling expert. With energy, humor, and depth, she takes her audience on a journey through impactful topics: from change and resilience to motivation, innovation, artificial intelligence, communication, and leadership.
Her mission? To simplify complexity, open minds, and touch hearts. Whether on big stages or in interactive workshops, she combines profound knowledge with emotional storytelling, creating lasting “aha” moments. Her talks are captivating experiences that inspire and empower people to take their next step with confidence.
