Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
by Mike Klein and Orla Clancy:
A new conversation is beginning to develop among communication professionals about “Communication Leadership.”
At its essence, it’s about the role of communication professionals as conscious and intentional participants in the events they communicate.
In bringing that awareness and intent to our roles, we can start to see the extent that our contributions help deliver outcomes for our organizations and clients – and indeed, alter their trajectories.
In other words – communication leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about initiative, courage, and impact.
At a basic level, #CommunicationLeadership is about anything communication pros do that goes beyond the transactional requirements of our jobs.
From a broader perspective, it reflects a mindshift from thinking one would only have impact from being given a “seat at the table” – to knowing that one has the direct impact of “having a hand on the wheel.”
What does that “hand on the wheel” look like in practice?
Asking good questions – either when decisions are being considered – or when they need to be positioned after the decisions are made.
Sharing new ideas – whether in informal conversation, or in the form of thought leadership that shares new perspectives and highlights alternative approaches for others to consider and emulate.
Bringing data to conversations – particularly when its introduction can impact decisions and outcomes.
Harnessing the power of words and stories – in framing ideas and making them accessible and real for people.
Tapping into informal networks – and engaging people whose credibility gives then decisive power.
Mobilizing allies – and amplifying the voices of those who want movement towards progress.
Individually, communication leadership is about us owning the power we have to make a difference.
Collectively, it’s about amplifying, magnifying and accelerating that power.
It’s time for communication leadership.
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Orla Clancy is Founder and Publisher of Strategic. Mike Klein is Founder of #WeLeadComms.
Written by: Editor
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It’s a great point of view. I’m an advocate of us being leaders with a specialism in communications, rather than being seen as the person who does communication. That way I can help to focus on the business outcome and suggest the interventions that I can help to manage in a way which goes far beyond a conversation about the specific deliverables. There’s a model I have used for many years (maybe decades!!) posited by Bill Quirke in ‘Making the Connections’ which illustrates the ROI from a Communications function which I think is foundational in this idea.
100% agree, Colin, and ROI is key!
I’m glad you like the point of view – we see it as even more than that, a shift in stance for communication professionals and a platform for a new and powerful approach to accountability. I agree with Orla that ROI is key, but I don’t think it’s the only key, as it often understates our impact even as it justifies it. Risk mitigation, reduced friction, and the ability to shift organizational trajectory are also powerful and demonstrable benefits. Great to have you engage on this, Colin!
Mike