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The Human Touch: 5 Tips for Authentic Executive Communications in an AI-Driven World
The Human Touch: 5 Tips for Authentic Executive Communications in an AI-Driven World - Go Beyond Data And Numbers
Executive communications have become increasingly data-driven in the age of AI, with leaders relying on analytics and metrics to guide their messaging. However, while data provides valuable insights, authentic communication requires going beyond the numbers to connect on a human level.
Leaning too heavily on data and statistics can make leaders seem detached and robotic. Audiences yearn for communication that speaks to shared hopes, struggles, values and purpose. As leadership advisor Dan Pontefract notes, “If you want to capture hearts and minds, if you want to motivate, you cannot do it with spreadsheets alone.”
Putting human experiences and stories behind the data makes it relatable. When describing company earnings or growth projections, for example, discuss what this performance means for employees’ job satisfaction and customers’ lives. Use anecdotes from real people that illustrate the data points.
HubSpot CEO Brian Halligan models this well in his employee communications. When sharing quarterly results, he spotlights individual customer success stories that exemplify HubSpot's mission and culture. This brings the numbers to life.
Data should inform, not replace, authentic communication. Leaders must still share their vision and convictions. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella inspires people by emphasizing purpose over profits. He talks about how Microsoft’s technology empowers others to achieve more.
The most memorable leaders catalyze change through their words and presence. Data alone doesn’t ignite passion or action. To quote Jeff Bezos, “It’s not only about the things you do, it’s about the things you decide not to do.” Discipline around data cannot restrict expressing beliefs.
The Human Touch: 5 Tips for Authentic Executive Communications in an AI-Driven World - Focus On Building Trust
Trust is the foundation of effective leadership, yet it can be elusive in today’s skeptical world. Leaders must focus intently on building credibility and confidence if they want their communications to resonate.
In a global Edelman Trust Barometer survey, 83% of respondents said trust in institutions is important to them. However, only about half trusted business, government, media and NGOs to “do what is right.” Trust must be earned through transparency, competence and moral leadership.
Leaders build trust by aligning words with actions. As leadership guru Simon Sinek explains, “Don’t say anything externally that you don’t believe internally. When the outside doesn’t match the inside, distrust starts." Staying true to your values and doing what you say will inspire belief in your message.
Admitting mistakes also fosters trust and humility. In a letter to shareholders, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos reflected on his biggest failings and lessons learned. Vulnerability makes leaders human. According to Brené Brown’s research, “People associate vulnerability with authenticity and trustworthiness.”
Additionally, providing context behind decisions helps audiences understand leaders’ thought processes. In a memo explaining controversial policy changes, Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky outlined his concerns, consulted experts and welcomed employee feedback. Good faith explanations build confidence.
Leading with empathy in difficult times also nurtures trust. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella boosted morale during COVID-19 by praising employees’ resilience and contributions. He also shared painful stories of loss that connected him to people’s realities.
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