Resources for Leaders

Vol. #8  8/12/03, Deanne G. Bryce, editor,

Do you want to change the focus and direction of the department you lead in your organization? Or perhaps you want to bring a new product to market or get financing for a new business venture. If so, you face a dilemma encountered by all leaders: You need to figure out how to communicate your ideas in a way that captures the attention and aspirations of others who can assist you in achieving your result.

I have to admit, when I first looked at the title and cover of Leech’s book, I thought,

“Methinks the tongue of Shakespeare on these mine own lips will surely confound thee, sweet audience.”

I quickly discovered, however, that even though the picture on the cover shows a man in a ruffled collar standing before a modern day business audience, Leech does not intend for his readers to quote Shakespeare in the office and the boardroom. Instead, he creatively uses many quotes from Shakespeare’s work to elaborate important points about communication. Here is an explanation in Leech’s own words:

“As you read Shakespeare’s observations, you’ll see how they readily apply to many forms of communication involved in the workplace—for example, meetings, written reports, presentations, customer service, managing, giving feedback, e-mail and task teams. They also apply to the many skills that make communication work or fail— for example, language, voice, nonverbal communication, appearance, listening, and relationships.”

Leech’s approach to teaching communication skills makes for an innovative guide to a subject that might otherwise be tiresome. We’ve probably all attended training classes on good communication and perhaps have read a book or two on the subject. If you feel you already know everything you need to know about communication, I urge you to read this fresh approach to the topic. You may not learn anything different, but you will be reminded of many useful communication tips and strategies that you may forget to incorporate on a daily basis. For example: Do you remember to listen to what the other person is saying? Shakespeare reminds us. . .

The book contains 24 short chapters divided into seven sections based on various communication objectives. As you read, you’ll come upon a quote from one of Shakespeare’s works about every two paragraphs. Not being experienced with Shakespeare’s work, I found this tedious at first. Once I got going, however, I was inspired to learn more so I supplemented my learning with a few trips to the library and the Internet. I became fascinated by how well-regarded this common man - who lived in England 400 years ago - still remains today.

We humans have been writing about leadership for more than 2000 years.  Is there anything new and exciting to be said about the subject? Perhaps not, but still we hunger for information and inspiration. ReaderStrength is an e-publication that adds value to your busy life as a leader by pointing you toward books to fuel your inspiration as you lead yourself and others.  Send us your ideas and favorite leadership books so that we can share them with others. 

Each issue is archived at www.leaderstrength.com/Reader.htm

A one-day workshop followed by six individual coaching sessions to help your team move closer to their desired results. Contact us at 215-721-0538 or leaders@leaderstrength.com for more information.