Breaking the Cliché: Strategies for Authentic Leadership Communication
Yesterday afternoon the television came on to a Season 10, Episode 5 of Chicago PD. This was the season that Jefferson White joined the cast as Chief O’Neal’s son, Sean O’Neal. In this episode Detective Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos) was having a discussion with Sean O’Neal who was at time helping them with a human trafficking case (he ended up being the human trafficker). Hailey said to Sean, “You talk in a lot of cliché’s.” Sean replied, “That’s because they’re usually true.” I’ve never been big on clichés and most of the time the people using them, overuse them, and don’t really live by them – definitely the point be made by Hailey’s comment in the show.
If using clichés at all, there needs to be a balance struck when it comes to using them. Here are a few strategies to be employed:
- Know Your Audience: Understanding the preferences and backgrounds of team members can help determine when a cliché might resonate positively or feel inauthentic or overused.
- Use Clichés Sparingly: Instead of relying on them frequently, a great communicator might use clichés in crucial moments for emphasis or connection, while otherwise opting for more original language.
- Mix with Originality: Pairing a cliché with fresh insights or personal anecdotes can give it new life and relevance, demonstrating that the person values creativity and authenticity.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: By fostering an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, leaders can gauge what phrases feel stale and what language inspires innovation. I’ve experienced original cliché’s that came about organically that became very meaningful and impactful.
- Adapt to Context: Recognizing the situation at hand—a motivational speech, a team meeting, or casual conversation—can help leaders decide when it’s appropriate to use familiar sayings or when to innovate. When in doubt, innovate.
- Model Authentic Communication: By prioritizing genuine expressions over clichés in their own communication, leaders can set an example for their teams, encouraging a culture of originality and thoughtfulness.
By being mindful of these aspects, and limiting the use of clichés, we can enhance our communication by be more authentic.
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