Hello communication leaders! This is the first blog post in a series we are doing over the next few weeks on how to communicate more effectively in business settings.
We are starting with what is called upward communication, which includes speeches, proposals, or briefings that are directed at audience members who hold higher positions in the organizational hierarchy than the sender.
Upward communication
How to Create an Effective Executive Summary

The “executive summary” emerged because executives have tightly scheduled days and prefer concise, relevant information. Executive summaries are usually produced in written form but must also be conveyed orally.
Don’t Pass Up Opportunities to Be Visible and Show Off Your Communication Skills

Employees want to be seen as competent, and demonstrating oral communication skills is a good way to be noticed and show off your technical and professional abilities.
Presentations are “high-visibility tasks” that establish a person’s credibility when performed well.
Presentations are “high-visibility tasks” that establish a person’s credibility when performed well.
Watch Out for Territoriality and Hierarchy

Be aware of organizational hierarchy and territory when speaking to executives and supervisors. Steering into terrain that is under someone else’s purview can get you in trouble if that person guards his or her territory.
For example, making a suggestion about marketing during a presentation about human resources can ruffle the marketing manager’s feathers and lead to negative consequences for you.
Also be aware that it can be challenging to deliver bad news to a boss. When delivering bad news, frame it in a way that highlights your concern for the health of the organization. An employee’s reluctance to discuss problems with a boss leads to more risk for an organization. The sooner a problem is known, the better for the organization.
For example, making a suggestion about marketing during a presentation about human resources can ruffle the marketing manager’s feathers and lead to negative consequences for you.
Also be aware that it can be challenging to deliver bad news to a boss. When delivering bad news, frame it in a way that highlights your concern for the health of the organization. An employee’s reluctance to discuss problems with a boss leads to more risk for an organization. The sooner a problem is known, the better for the organization.
We hope these tips help you in your day-to-day communication in business and professional settings. Let us know your thoughts! Connect with us via email (connectcla@communicationleaderacademy.com) or post a reply on social media.
If you want to learn more about communicating and leading for success, check out our 5-course bundle!
If you would like custom content or training/consulting for your team, let us know and we’ll be happy to help!
And, stay tuned for more blogs in this series that focus on how to communicate more effectively in business settings.
If you would like custom content or training/consulting for your team, let us know and we’ll be happy to help!
And, stay tuned for more blogs in this series that focus on how to communicate more effectively in business settings.
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