Stop talking. start connecting: three communication principles every leader needs

We live in a deeply connected world, and it’s clear that communication and social interaction—especially in the workplace—have never been more crucial than they are during these challenging times for all of us.

Yet, it’s precisely during moments like these that we are called to bring our best.

The importance of communication

Communicating with and for our team is a cornerstone of high performance and a results-driven environment. After all, we’re social creatures who depend on a clear and steady flow of information to perform at our highest level.

The real challenge isn’t just communicating for the sake of it—something many can do—but being truly effective in how we share ideas and information.

As managers, one of our key goals should be figuring out how to communicate most effectively with our team members, bringing clarity and making processes smoother.

Three truly is a magic number

While there are plenty of effective communication methods, one that stands out is the “rule of three.”

Whether you’re delivering a presentation, telling a story, crafting a proposal, or pitching your company’s services, keeping this principle in mind can be a game-changer.

Think about it: the number three shows up all over childhood stories and fairy tales for a reason. Research tells us our brains naturally organize information in groups of three. Adding or subtracting elements tends to weaken how well we remember.

Using this rule helps our audience retain message better. Pick three examples, points, or ideas that best capture what you want to say. Repeat them throughout your talk and circle back to them at the end.

Choose the right format

Every audience is different, so it’s important to adapt your communication style based on the goal and the preferences of our team. How do our team members prefer to receive information?

By tuning into these preferences and adjusting your approach, you’ll make a bigger impact. Remember, it’s about adapting—not completely changing our style. Try out small tweaks naturally before making bigger shifts with your team.

Strong relationships drive success

Finally, don’t forget to check in regularly with your team about how they’re doing and how confident they feel in building strong workplace relationships. Our work happens through connections, and the ability to build bridges beyond our immediate circles is essential to the company’s success.