186. Own Your Impact: How to Communicate Your Personal Power
Feb 18, 2025
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Explore how tapping into personal power can transform communication. A strong belief in oneself enhances the persuasiveness of messages. Discover how mindsets shape interactions, especially in high-stakes situations like pitches. Learn the art of structuring compelling pitches that resonate with audiences by focusing on benefits. Embrace authenticity and master nonverbal cues to engage effectively. This insightful conversation offers research-backed strategies for impactful communication that starts from within.
Personal power stems from self-belief, influencing how individuals communicate and shaping perceptions of their competence and authority.
Taking accountability enhances personal power perception, as those who accept responsibility are viewed as more impactful and confident communicators.
Deep dives
Understanding Personal Power
Personal power is defined as the belief in one's own capability to create impact, which can significantly affect communication outcomes. It has been observed that individuals who exude personal power often focus on action rather than deliberation, a distinction that can shape perceptions of competence in high-stakes environments. For instance, studies show that leaders who prioritize implementing decisions over discussing options are seen as more powerful and authoritative. This internal belief influences not only how individuals conduct themselves but also how they are viewed by others, emphasizing the connection between mindset and external communication.
The Role of Responsibility
Taking responsibility is crucial for enhancing personal power, as blaming external factors can diminish one's perceived influence. Individuals who accept accountability for their actions demonstrate a greater sense of control and agency in their environment, thereby bolstering their power perception among peers. For example, employees who acknowledge their role in a workplace challenge rather than deflecting blame are often seen as more competent and impactful. This principle underscores the idea that personal responsibility fosters a positive psychological state that radiates confidence and authority in communication.
Language and Communication Strategy
The use of language plays a vital role in conveying personal power, with effective communication often hinging on the ability to shift between concrete details and abstract concepts. Research indicates that pitches framed in abstract terms are perceived as more compelling and valuable, showcasing a broader understanding and outlook. Practicing concrete speech while also tapping into higher-order values can significantly increase the likelihood of success in convincing others, as seen in a study suggesting that candidates who reflect on their key values before an interview are far more likely to secure the position. This dual approach to language helps to project confidence and authority, resonating with audiences and enhancing one's overall communication effectiveness.
Why good communication starts with tapping into your power.
Impactful communication isn’t just about the words you use. According to Chris Lipp, it’s about the power you deliver them with.
“When we have a belief in ourselves, what we say changes,” says Lipp, a professor at Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business and author of The Science of Personal Power. Throughout his career as an academic and communications coach for entrepreneurs, he’s explored how tapping into personal power can transform our messages and the impact they create. "Personal power is our belief in our own capability to create impact,” he says. “When things [take] shape on the inside, we think differently, we behave differently... and other people perceive that power."
In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Lipp and Matt Abrahams explore how our mindset shapes our message, sharing research-backed strategies for communicating with power. From embracing authenticity to staying grounded in our values, Lipp reveals how strong communication starts by building strength within.
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