
Let’s go back in time. Let’s head to the 2000’s. The millennium bug wasn’t that big after all, “Who let the dogs out” somehow didn’t make it to number 1, and Gladiator was packing out cinemas everywhere.
But there was also a group of researchers visiting 60 different companies. And while we were watching Russel Crowe scream, “Are you not entertained?”, those researchers were silently listening to meetings, scribbling down every single word.
What they did afterwards was analyse their transcriptions looking for positive and negative words. And what they found was that companies with the greater financial performance had a 3:1 ratio for positive communication.
Meaning, that for every one piece of constructive feedback (or criticism), there were three examples of recognition, encouragement, or positive reinforcement.
What’s more, in teams that were achieving extraordinary performance, their ratio was closer to 6:1!
Words build worlds.
As leaders, what we say matters.
Positive communication can have an enormous impact on the motivation, emotional wellbeing, psychological safety and problem-solving ability of our teams.
It’s no secret that happier people are more productive. In fact, it’s been proven.
The Lasado Ratio – as this piece of research is called – highlights a way that we can use communication to create a more positive experience for our people. An experience that leads to greater happiness and satisfaction. That, in turn, translates into stronger performance.
So, you’re saying there’s a secret formula?
Not exactly. As with every piece of research there are several more papers that ‘debunk’ the theory, the results and the science behind it.
But whether you believe in the perfect ratio or not, communication remains an essential leadership skill. So, how do you want to use that skill – to create a cloud of criticism, fear, and defensiveness? Or to support, enable and inspire people to be their absolute best?
There’s only one real winner.
Five ways to start using positive communication
One of the best things about communication is… it’s free. But it does take a conscious and continual effort. So, how can we make positive communication a part of our day-to-day?
Manage your own emotions
I’m sure we’ve all been told at some point, “watch out, they’re not in a good mood”, before stepping into a leadership meeting. How did that make you feel – nervous, anxious, confused? Not exactly a positive experience.
So, let’s not be that kind of leader. We all have ‘off’ days – we’re all human – but don’t let those negative emotions spread across the team.
As a leader, your wellbeing is just as important as that of your team, so if you find yourself feeling low, take the time to recognise what you’re feeling; change what you can; and prioritise the things that you enjoy… turning those off days, into better days.
Catch people doing it right
Praise and recognition are a huge part of positive communication. So, catch people doing a good job and let them know about it.
Find the times that they’re living your values; appreciate the small acts that often go unnoticed; and let them know how they’re making a difference to the organisation.
Set the tone
You lead by example. You set the tone. So, make it a positive one. At your next meeting, start by showing your genuine appreciation for people’s time. Be inquisitive about people’s thoughts and reactions and invite them to contribute. Celebrate milestones. And instead of focusing on what went wrong, turn them into learning opportunities to ensure success next time.
Offer support
Being positive doesn’t mean saying ‘nice’ things – the things people want to hear. It means supporting people, showing up for them, and empowering them to succeed.
Things will always go wrong. But when we use positive communication, we can reframe challenges and problems as opportunities. And, as a leader, you role is to enable people to learn from the experience and support them in understanding what we can do differently the next time.
Actively listen
Communication is two-way. So, when you’re inviting ideas and asking questions, be ready to listen to and acknowledge the response. And remember, your body language is just as important as the words you speak.
Keep it going
The world is changing, and so are expectations of leaders. But why do we keep developing our leaders in the same old ways?
It’s time to evolve. It’s time to give our leaders the skills and tools to drive the culture that will power people and businesses forward.
Get in touch. And let’s get to work.