Good leaders know how to talk so people want to try harder. Even in technical jobs, how you talk and treat people can make up most of your success. Here are easy ideas you can use to be a leader who inspires others.
1. Start with Appreciation and Wanting to Feel Important
People want to feel important. When you make someone feel valued, they work better.
Give real praise
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Say thank you and point out what someone did well.
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Don’t use fake compliments. Mean what you say.
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Avoid too much criticism — it hurts morale.
Show them what’s in it for them
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People do things when they want to. Ask, “What’s in it for you?”
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Explain how a task helps them, not just the company.
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When someone sees the benefit, they will try more.
2. Build Trust and Connection
How you act matters as much as what you say.
Use friendly body language
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Smile warmly. Wait a moment, then let your smile show — it feels real.
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Keep kind eye contact so people know you are listening.
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Turn your body toward someone to show you care about them.
Listen to understand
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Ask questions to learn how the other person feels.
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Let people talk about themselves and their ideas.
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Match your talk to how they are feeling — practical or emotional.
Speak so people listen
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Start sentences with “you” to grab attention.
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Use examples they know. If they like boats, use boat words to explain things.
3. Correct with Care and Help People Improve
Leaders must sometimes point out mistakes. Do it without hurting pride.
Be gentle with criticism
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Begin with praise before you give feedback.
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Say things indirectly instead of ordering.
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Share your own mistakes first. This helps people accept feedback.
Ask questions, don’t boss
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Ask, “What do you think about this?” instead of saying “Do this.”
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Questions help people join the decision and feel respected.
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Praise small improvements and make fixes seem easy.
These simple habits — real praise, listening, kind body language, and asking questions — help people feel cared for and want to do their best. Try one idea today and watch your team change for the better.