Words have immense power, especially when they come from a leader. The language used by a leader can inspire, motivate, and build trust, shaping the culture of a team or organization. Great leaders understand the impact of their words and often use specific phrases that resonate deeply with those they lead. These phrases are more than just words—they are expressions of leadership values that drive engagement, foster collaboration, and empower others to excel.
As an executive leadership coach, I’ve worked with leaders across industries, helping them articulate language that builds connections and drives positive change. My goal is to equip leaders with the tools to communicate effectively, inspire their teams, and lead authentically.
Here are four phrases that great leaders make part of their every day communication.
“What do you think?”
Great leaders value the perspectives of others and understand that collaboration is key to innovation. By asking, “What do you think?” they invite input and show that they respect the knowledge and opinions of their team members. This simple phrase fosters an environment of open dialogue and empowers individuals to share their ideas, leading to more creative and effective solutions. It also reinforces the leader’s commitment to inclusivity and teamwork.
“How can I support you?”
Great leaders are not just taskmasters; they are supporters and enablers of their team’s success. Asking, “How can I support you?” demonstrates a leader’s willingness to help their team overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. This phrase shifts the focus from directive leadership to servant leadership, where the leader’s primary role is to facilitate the success of others. It also signals that the leader is approachable and genuinely invested in the well-being of their team.
“Let’s explore this further.”
Great leaders understand the importance of curiosity and continuous improvement. When they say, “Let’s explore this further,” they signal an openness to new ideas and a commitment to deeper understanding. This phrase encourages team members to think critically and delve into topics more thoroughly, fostering a culture of innovation and learning. It shows that the leader values exploration and is willing to invest time in developing ideas, rather than settling for surface-level solutions. This approach not only enhances problem-solving but also empowers teams to take ownership of their work and pursue excellence with confidence.
“I trust you.”
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. When a leader says, “I trust you,” they are expressing confidence in their team’s abilities and judgment. This phrase not only boosts morale but also encourages autonomy and accountability. By trusting their team members, leaders enable them to take ownership of their work, make decisions, and grow in their roles. It’s a powerful way to build a culture of mutual respect and empowerment.
When leaders intentionally choose phrases that empower, trust, and support their team members, they cultivate a work culture where people feel genuinely valued and motivated. The consistent use of thoughtful language doesn’t just drive day-to-day productivity—it lays the foundation for long-term success and enduring relationships. By speaking with purpose, leaders not only guide their teams through challenges but also inspire them to achieve new heights.
Lead From Within: The true power of leadership lies in the words we choose. Speak with intention, inspire with authenticity, and lead with words that uplift and empower.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- Avoid These 7 Phrases When You Are Giving Feedback
- 12 Stupid Things to Stop Saying to Your Team Immediately
- 10 Phrases That Will Help You Handle a Micromanaging Boss
- 7 Misleading Phrases To Avoid In Every Leadership Conversation
- 6 Magic Phrases to Inspire Leadership Respect
- 7 Common Phrases That Can Ruin Your Leadership Credibility
- 12 Phrases That Will Help You Resolve Any Conflict
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.