1: The Leader as Communicator

Can you imagine an effective leader who is not an effective communicator? Leadership communication skills are very important. Some would call it the most important leadership competency. Without the skills of effective communication, you will not be an effective leader, especially in this complex, fast-paced environment.

It is important for the leader to create an environment of open communication where the exchange of ideas, solutions, and problems can all be discussed without fear. When employees understand that communication is open and encouraged, they will perform better.

Using the module readings, University online library resources, and the Internet, research communication competencies required for leaders. Respond to the following:

• What are some key communication competencies needed in leaders today?
• Is individual communication more important than group or mass communication? Why or why not?
• List 3–5 methods that leaders can use to improve their individual communication skills.

Support your positions with specific examples or by citing credible sources.

Write your initial response in approximately 300 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources. By Wednesday, September 25, 2013, post your response to the appropriate Discussion Area.

 2: Developing a Climate of Trust

In Module 5, you will explore the notion of trust. It can be argued that trust is a critical currency in the leader/follower relationship. As we all know, trust is hard to earn and easy to lose. Leaders earn trust by personal example, personal values, performance, attitude, expertise, and experience. Leaders must be consistent in words and actions. Followers will not believe in a leader’s message unless they believe in the leader.

Trust is earned in action and can be lost in a moment if the leader forgets that he must lead by example. To fully leverage earned trust, the leader must also create an environment of trust or as it is often called, a “climate of trust.” This is characterized as an environment of open communication including a free exchange of feedback up and down the organization. It is an environment where employees feel they have a voice and will be heard. It is not a blame-oriented environment but one that promotes thoughtful risk taking and sees mistakes as a natural result of growth and learning.
In this assignment, you will analyze how a leader can create and sustain a climate of trust.

Using the module readings,University online library resources, and the Internet, research methods for creating a climate of trust and healthy relationships.

Using the research resources and your own experiences, respond to the following:

• Why is a climate of trust important? What can happen in a climate without trust and/or healthy relationships?
• What are 3–4 ways a leader can create a climate of trust and facilitate healthy relationships?

Support your positions with specific examples from credible sources.

Write your initial response in approximately 300 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.

By Thursday, September 26, 2013, post your response to the appropriateDiscussion Area.