Speaking Up Isn’t Easy – But It’s the Key to Leading Through Turbulent Times

Why is authentic leadership so essential in times of uncertainty? When the road ahead feels shaky, we need leaders who listen and have the courage to speak up. Clear, honest communication is the secret weapon for successfully navigating challenges. So, why is it so hard to do? And how can leaders sharpen their skills to meet the moment?In this blog, we dive into why speaking up matters, how it drives high performing teams, and practical strategies to foster a culture of open communication within your leadership team.

The Impact of Open Communication on Team Performance

Open communication isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential for building high performing teams. Without candid dialogue, organisations risk fostering misalignment, misunderstandings, and mistrust, derailing a team’s progress.

High performing and executive leadership teams alike thrive on trust, clarity, and shared understanding. Leaders who speak up, especially during tough times, set the tone for the rest of the group. They tackle the “elephant in the room” and ensure critical issues aren’t swept under the rug.

Strategies for Authentic Leadership

Speaking up isn’t just about having a voice in the room—it’s about using that voice effectively. Authentic leadership requires leaders to connect with their teams genuinely and foster a culture where communication feels safe, valued, and encouraged.

1. Lead by Example

Be transparent with your team. If you’re open and honest about challenges and how you’re addressing them, your team will be, too. Creating a culture of open communication starts at the top, so you must model the behaviour you want to see in others.

2. Ask, Don’t Tell

Great communicators listen more than they speak. Encourage your team to share their ideas and concerns by asking open-ended questions. An inclusive approach nurtures an invaluable sense of ownership amongst your team, empowering them to feel heard and to contribute to solutions actively.

3. Practice Vulnerability

Being a leader doesn’t mean having all the answers. Showing vulnerability humanises you and builds trust. Sharing your challenges makes you relatable and creates a safe space for your team to speak openly. 

Brené Brown emphasises that vulnerability is not a weakness but a measure of courage. She highlights that leaders who are willing to step into discomfort, take risks, and show authenticity foster stronger relationships and innovative thinking within their teams. The Dare to Lead™ program, based on her research, offers practical tools for leaders to cultivate their vulnerability and courage capabilities.

4. Encourage Feedback

Feedback is key to good communication. Foster an environment where feedback is normal, welcomed, and constructive, even when critical. Imagine the impact when an employee feels confident saying, “This process is slowing us down—can we try something else?” Openness like this sparks innovation and improves results.

Explore the transformative power of language in leadership, in our summary of L. David Marquet’s book Leadership is Language.

Developing Leadership Capabilities

Building a culture of open communication takes time, intention, and effort. A great way to foster this is through high performing team training and leadership development programs.

Why Leadership Training Matters

Leadership training equips leaders with key skills like conflict resolution, active listening, and giving constructive feedback. These skills help create an environment where open communication is safe and encouraged.

Choosing the Right Leadership Program

The best training programs align with your organisation’s needs and goals. When selecting one, consider your learning objectives and current business challenges. Choose trainers with real-world experience leading teams through uncertainty. Their insights can give leaders practical strategies to apply immediately, driving real change in your organisation.

Leadership isn’t easy—especially in tough times. But speaking up and fostering open communication can turn challenges into opportunities. Authenticity and strong leadership skills aren’t just bonuses—they’re essential. Leading with trust, collaboration, and innovation builds high performing teams.

Want to grow as a leader? Start by speaking up, leading by example, showing vulnerability, encouraging feedback, and investing in leadership training. Your team will thank you.