Communicating with Authority in the Boardroom: A Guide for Senior Leaders

In the dynamic landscape of corporate leadership, possessing subject matter expertise is crucial. However, it's equally vital to communicate with authority, especially when your perspective differs from that of senior stakeholders. Unfortunately, many senior leaders hesitate to voice their differing opinions, fearing they might upset others. This unconscious pattern of self-sabotage not only diminishes their gravitas but also prevents them from being considered for senior-level board positions or CXO roles. To address this issue, a shift in mindset is essential. However, there are also practical steps that can help leaders navigate these challenging conversations more effectively.

Here are four actionable steps to help you communicate your differing opinions with authority:

Step 1: Paraphrasing

Begin by paraphrasing the key points shared by the senior stakeholder. This shows that you have listened attentively and understand their perspective. For example, you might say, "If I understand correctly, you’re suggesting that we should increase our investment in digital marketing to drive growth."

Step 2: Seeking Permission

Seek permission to share your differing perspective. This creates a respectful and collaborative environment, reducing the likelihood of triggering a defensive reaction. You might say, "Is it okay if I offer a different perspective on this?"

Step 3: Smiling

Maintain a smile throughout the discussion. A genuine smile conveys composure and friendliness, helping to create a positive atmosphere. It signals that you are not challenging the person but rather contributing constructively to the conversation.

Step 4: Sharing Your Perspective

When sharing your perspective, do so with firmness and a polite tone. Use a falling tone towards the end of your statements to convey decisiveness. For instance, instead of saying, "I think we should consider another approach," which may sound uncertain, say, "I propose we explore another approach." The falling tone at the end of the sentence signifies confidence and decisiveness.

Example of Using a Falling Tone

Consider the difference between these two sentences:

• "I think we might need to re-evaluate our strategy?"

• "I believe we should re-evaluate our strategy."

The second sentence, with a falling tone, demonstrates confidence and authority.

By implementing these steps, senior leaders can break free from unconscious patterns of self-sabotage, enhancing their executive presence. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it. Developing the skill to communicate differing opinions with authority is a crucial component of leadership, paving the way for greater influence and career advancement.

Conclusion

Communicating with authority in the boardroom is an essential skill for any senior leader. By paraphrasing, seeking permission, smiling, and using a firm yet polite tone, you can ensure that your opinions are heard and respected. These techniques help create a constructive dialogue, allowing you to contribute your valuable insights without fear of upsetting others. Embrace these steps to enhance your executive presence and advance your leadership journey.

Would you like to dive deeper into strategies for developing executive presence? My book, "Demystifying Executive Presence," offers an insightful assessment tool and self-reflective exercises to guide you in this journey. Let's work together to elevate your leadership impact!