episode 47 - the word is succinic

Welcome to episode 47 of The Word is Leadership. this week, our random word is one I had never come across before: ‘succinic’, an adjective related to amber, specifically referring to compounds derived from succinic acid. While initially baffling, this discovery provides a unique lens to examine leadership communication. I explore how leaders can effectively communicate complex ideas that might initially seem as obscure as the term "succinic" to their teams.

Understanding and communication are fundamentally about making connections. Leaders often operate with a wealth of specialised knowledge, much like a chemist understands "succinic" in relation to amber. However, the challenge is ensuring this knowledge is accessible and relatable to others who do not share the same background or perspective.

To bridge this gap, I propose a three-step approach:

Assessment: Consider your message from the standpoint of someone with different experiences. Would it make sense to them without your level of expertise?

Association: Use analogies and references that are familiar to your audience to create a connection between known concepts and new ideas.

Deduction: Explicitly unpack your reasoning. Don't skip from A to Z without explaining the intermediate steps, ensuring clarity and avoiding assumptions.

This approach not only facilitates better understanding but also enhances engagement by making complex ideas more accessible.

As we wrap up, I encourage you to think about your own "succinic dialogues." Are you ensuring your communication is clear and relatable, or could it be seen as obscure? Reflecting on this can significantly enhance how you lead and connect with your team.