Communication Mastery for Executive VPs & Series D Sales Leaders
Melani Gordon
September 25, 2024
To my Executive VPs whose team culture is teetering on the edge of a breakdown– you need to show your team that you’ve got their back. Frequent, clear updates are a great place to start. Share the wins, acknowledge the struggles, and most importantly, be present.
And to my Series D VPs of Sales with a board doubting your CRO potential – this is your moment. Prove you can lead through stellar communication. Make your updates so valuable that your board looks forward to them. Show them you’re not just capable, but essential.
One of my clients implemented my suggestion to share a weekly 1-2 minute update video with his sales team via Slack. This initiative has helped the team feel seen and heard.
Key Takeaways
Stay Top of Mind: Regular updates keep you on your team's and stakeholders’ radar.
Stand Out: Most leaders don’t prioritize this or lack the discipline to stay consistent. Be the exception.
Build Trust: Transparent, honest communication builds trust and camaraderie, especially during tough times.
Personal Touch
I remember the time I had to lay off core team members due to a blip in the economy. The team was left with survivor's guilt and a lingering suspicion of my decisions. It wasn’t easy, but I used consistent communication to rebuild trust. I was upfront about our challenges and transparent about our path forward. It worked.
Actionable Steps for Effective Communication
Frequent Updates: Whether through emails, videos, or team meetings, keep your communication regular and reliable. Make sure your team knows what’s happening and feels included in the process.
Highlight Wins and Acknowledge Struggles: Celebrate successes and be honest about the challenges. This balanced approach keeps morale high and shows your team that you see their hard work and understand their difficulties.
Be Present: Show up for your team. Attend meetings, be available for one-on-ones, and engage with your team on a personal level. Your presence reinforces your commitment to their success.
Tailor Your Communication: Know your audience. Customize your messages for different stakeholders – whether it’s your team, the board, or clients. This ensures that your communication is relevant and impactful.
Utilize Technology: Leverage tools like Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams to keep the lines of communication open and efficient. A short, weekly video update can go a long way in keeping everyone informed and connected.
Resources
Slack: An essential tool for team communication and collaboration.
Zoom: Ideal for video updates and virtual meetings.
Microsoft Teams: A robust platform for team communication and collaboration.
By focusing on consistent, transparent communication, you can strengthen your team culture and build trust with your board. Show your leadership through actions and words, proving that you’re not just capable, but essential.
Elevate Your Leadership with Effective Communication
Effective communication is a cornerstone of leadership training, leadership coaching, and leadership development. By honing your communication skills, you can enhance executive performance and inspire your team to reach new heights.
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