Jonathan D. Levin, the tenth dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Business and newly appointed President of Stanford University, discusses the critical role of communication in leadership. He emphasizes the balance between being direct and allowing open dialogue. Levin reflects on his evolution as a communicator, the importance of clarity in uncertain times, and the vital role of education in preparing future leaders. He also touches on the responsibilities of leaders to address societal issues and inspire innovation.
Effective leadership communication balances being directive with fostering open dialogue, essential for motivating and connecting with teams.
Business education must evolve to address societal challenges, empowering future leaders to find innovative solutions to global issues.
Deep dives
The Importance of Effective Communication in Leadership
Communication plays a vital role in effective leadership, particularly in balancing directive and participatory approaches. Leaders face challenges in how to convey their perspectives while also fostering open dialogue among team members. The evolving expectations of leaders require them to navigate complex situations with clarity and sensitivity to the emotional responses of their audience. By understanding the dual purpose of communication—to inform and inspire—leaders can better connect with their teams and motivate them to engage in meaningful discussions.
Adapting Communication Strategies Over Time
Throughout a career, the approach to communication often shifts from sharing personal expertise to connecting with broader audiences. As leaders grow, they must adapt their communication styles to meet the needs of different stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the public. Specific experiences, rather than singular moments of realization, contribute to this growth in understanding the craft of communication. Leaders learn that refining their skills requires ongoing effort, practice, and a willingness to evolve with the changing landscape of their environments.
Addressing Global Challenges through Business Education
Business education must evolve to address critical global issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and technological disruption. Institutions like Stanford aim to instill in students an understanding of the complexities inherent in capitalism, encouraging them to grapple with and find innovative solutions to these challenges. The goal is to prepare graduates who not only excel in business but also contribute positively to society by addressing pressing concerns. By fostering a culture of innovation and critical thinking, business schools can empower the next generation of leaders to tackle societal problems effectively.
"In a leadership role, so much more of communication is about connecting with people, establishing shared humanity, motivating them, inspiring them, sometimes challenging them."
On August 1, 2024, Jonathan D. Levin, the tenth dean of Stanford Graduate School of Business, was appointed the President of Stanford University. In this Think Fast, Talk Smartepisode from 2022, Levin reflects on the importance of communication as a leader. There is a balance, he says, in being direct with your dialogue, while also "leaving space for people to form their own opinions, to discuss ideas, to debate."