An integral part of effective leadership has to do with one word: communication. Whether it is communication via email, motivational speeches, one-on-one meetings, or phone calls, communication is imperative to a successful agency. It makes no difference if you are talking to clients, prospects or your employees. You need to have the necessary skills to effectively get your point across.

The impression you make with your communication skills is going to be lasting. If you are going to have an astonishing sales strategy, you need to start with your communication within your office.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Always maintain a positive attitude. People are going to respond better to positive tones. Even if you have to offer criticism, or express dissatisfaction, if you do so constructively and avoid “attacking”, you will foster a much better outcome.
• Be responsive. There are different “rules of thumb” depending on the method of communication, but the golden rule is this: try to respond as soon as possible.
• Maintain an open-door policy. You always want to be portraying yourself as someone who is open to all communication. If your employees have a question or concern, you want them to come to you!
• Write how you speak. One of the most effective ways to communicate is to type out what you are trying to say as you would say it out loud. You can always go back later and add a more professional tone if necessary.

You always want to consider your audience. You may speak to your employees in a much more casual tone than you would a prospective client. Or, you may have a closer relationship with a current client as compared to a newly obtained client. You want to be mindful of your tone and how you present yourself. Remember, first impressions count!