Worth Reading for Every Manager.
"Leadership Is Language" is a book written by L. David Marquet, which explores the hidden power of language in the context of leadership. The book offers several key learnings on how to reshape leadership communication and drive better outcomes for organizations.

1. Change the language to change the conversation: The first key learning stresses the importance of changing the language we use to communicate with colleagues. For example, instead of using the directive language "Do this" or "Do that," a leader should opt for an open-ended approach such as "What do you think might work?" This is more collaborative and empowers the employee to take ownership of the task at hand.

2. Control the environment, not the people: The second key learning is to control the environment, not the people. Leaders should concentrate on creating a work environment that is empowering, supportive, and enables employees to grow and develop. This approach encourages employees to take ownership of their tasks and be responsible for their outcomes. It also creates a more open and collaborative workplace. For example, if an employee is struggling with a task, rather than directing them to complete it faster, a better approach might be to ask, "What changes would make this task more manageable for you?"

3. Focus on experiments, not failure: The third key learning is to focus on experiments, not failures. Experimentation is about learning and growing as a team. Cultivating a learning environment where everyone shares ideas without fear of failure is essential in achieving organizational goals. For example, a team leader can implement small-scale experiments in a particular project to test new ideas, gather data and insights, and make informed and data-driven decisions.

4. Speak last: The fourth key learning emphasizes the importance of leaders speaking mostly in the end. When leaders speak first, it can create a power dynamic in the room and limit the contribution of others. By allowing team members to express their thoughts and ideas first, leaders promote healthy collaboration, build trust, and encourage more creative solutions. This approach also offers group members diverse perspectives and helps them learn from each other.

5. Avoid abstract nouns: The fifth key learning suggests avoiding abstract nouns in favor of concrete language. Specific and precise language helps in reducing misunderstandings and clarifying objectives. For example, instead of using an umbrella term like "quality," a leader can use a specific target such as "defect rate" to measure progress effectively.

6. Encourage team building exercises: The sixth key learning stresses the importance of team-building exercises that encourage collaboration and effective communication. Team-building exercises can help teams work more efficiently and is an excellent way to learn new skills from other team members.

7. Lead with curiosity: The final key learning suggests that leaders should lead with curiosity rather than certainty. By asking thoughtful and open-ended questions, and seeking answers from employees, leaders can get better insights and ideas. Reducing the power distance between employees and their leaders promotes a culture of engagement, and collaboration.

In conclusion, the key learnings from "Leadership Is Language" offer actionable insights on how leaders can improve communication, create a collaborative work environment, and drive better outcomes for their organizations. Incorporating these key learnings in the workplace can help leaders to build more productive, innovative, and engaged teams.