The power of nonverbal communication is not to be underestimated. On this episode of The Forward Thinking Podcast, FCCS VP of Marketing and Communications Stephanie Barton welcomes Pamela Barnum, speaker at the upcoming and the FCCS Learning Conference in Chicago and Former Undercover Police Officer & Federal Prosecuting Attorney, Trust Strategist & Nonverbal Communication Expert for a discussion about the art of persuasion without coercion – a superpower for any effective leader.

Episode Insights Include:

The power of nonverbal communication 

• Nonverbal communication is emotional intelligence on display.

• Nonverbal cues include tone of voice, cadence of speech, and body language.

• Leaders need to give as much attention to nonverbal communication as they do to the perfectly crafted verbal response.

• First impressions are often the most crucial moments of our professional lives.

Nonverbal techniques can establish trust

• People make decisions about others within 1/10th of a second.

• It is essential to show up in a way that demonstrates confidence, empathy, and humility.

• First impressions establish the foundations of confidence and trust.

Identifying sources of leverage in negotiations with DID questions

• Discovery questions ask 'what' and offer an overview of a person's abilities.

• Implementation questions ask 'how' and give information that can be leveraged.

• Disclosure questions ask 'why' and offer insights into what the other person wants.

• DID questions provide opportunities to fulfill the other person's wants as well as yours.

Leveraging leadership strengths with priming

• Increasing self-awareness is critically important in overcoming imposter syndrome.

• The exercise of priming empowers leaders by reminding them of previous successes that will prepare them for future success.

• Keep a journal of successes to recall times that you got it right. 

• A leader's mindset controls their success. 

The importance of improving nonverbal communication

• Leaders often get caught up in doing things the way they've always been done instead of using each encounter as a unique opportunity for connection. 

• Active listening is essential – ask intentional questions and listen for the answers. 

• Conversations and connections can be improved with active listening. 

• Effective leaders ask their team what kind of communication serves them best. 

Effective communication in the face of conflict

• Get purposeful about perspective taking – leaders are not separate and apart from their team. 

• Slow down in the face of conflict to de-escalate the heightened tension.  

• Take a break from the conflict if needed. 

• Take time to consider the other perspective. 

Avoiding common communication mistakes 

• Employ the SOME tactics– smile, open, mirroring and eye contact. 

• Remain open through body language and avoid crossing arms. 

• By remaining open, leaders appear more empathetic. 

• Being open is effective and exhibits confidence and vulnerability. 

This podcast is powered by FCCS.

Resources

Connect with Pamela Barnum – Pamela Barnum

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