How to Speak Like a CEO

Key Concepts

• Speaking like a CEO is about clarity, enthusiasm, confidence, and connection.
• Avoid pounding your fist or commanding attention aggressively.
• Aim to draw people into your message with a strong connection.

1. Keep Communication Simple

• Clarity: Make your message easy to understand.
• Avoid Interference:
  • Too much information
  • Long-winded sentences
  • Complicated vocabulary
• Guidelines:
  • Use plain language
  • Limit technical jargon
  • Stick to the rule of threes
  • Be direct and concise
  • Pace communication, allow time for questions

2. Speak with Enthusiasm

• Leaders are often admired for their charisma and energy.
• Benefits:
  • Convince people of big ideas
  • Get enthusiasm for mundane tasks
  • Motivate towards goals
  • Make the impossible seem possible
• Achieving Enthusiasm:
  • Use positive/motivating language
  • Explain steps and goals as achievable
  • Use body language and facial expressions

Steps to Infuse Enthusiasm

• Repetition: Key message or phrase
• Relatable Examples: Previous projects, relatable situations
• Emotional Stories: Overcoming obstacles
• Urgency: Reveal consequences of inaction
• Vocal Variety: Volume, pitch, speed changes
• Physical Expression: Facial expressions, gestures

3. Communicate the Why

• People want to know why they should listen or act.
• A good why motivates action and engagement.
• If you can't find a why, refine your idea before presentation.
• Example Phrases:
  • Use “because” to justify actions:
    • "Take on this project because our client might leave."
    • "Free samples because clients need to experience our product."

4. Relate Your Message to Your Audience

• Connect the message to audience needs, wants, fears, desires.
• Break down barriers of hesitancy and fear.
• Techniques:
  • Use stories and examples relatable to them
  • Mention emotions and situations they experience
  • Know your audience through familiarity or research

Example:

• Relating free samples to an everyday shopping scenario to connect emotionally.

5. Be Brave and Invite Input

• Two-way conversation:
  • Encourage team to share thoughts and ideas.
  • Helps uncover best ideas and address concerns.
• Methods:
  • Ask for thoughts post-idea presentation
  • Allow 8-10 seconds for responses
  • Call on specific individuals if necessary to start discussion

Conclusion

• Charisma plays a critical role in meeting effectiveness.
• Watch suggested videos on becoming a charismatic leader for further guidance.
• Subscribe for weekly content on advancing as a leader.