General Leadership
  • Home
    • Home
    • Log-In or Register
    • Members Only
    • Sign-Up To Receive Our Newsletter!
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Advertise With Us
    • Register to become a contributor to GeneralLeadership.com
    • Let Us Publish You!
    • Speakers Bureau
    • Order of the Penguin
    • Featured Partners
    • Contact Us
  • Media
    • Media
    • The GL Team in Action!
    • Testimonials
  • Team
    • General Officer Authors
    • General John E. Michel
    • Matthew T Fritz
    • George H. Fritz
    • Catie Hargrove
    • Douglas VanWiggeren
    • Garth Sanginiti
    • Angela Maiers
    • Jean Michel
    • Jay Steven Levin
    • Chris R. Stricklin
    • Holly Michel
    • Kimberly Huth
    • Zach Stricklin
    • Taylor Fritz
  • Chats
  • Our Programs
    • MentorsMatter™
    • Vet2VetConnect™
    • LeaderView™

General Leadership

MailTwitter
Oct 14 2015

Language as a Leadership Tool?

Posted by Croft Edwards
Tweet

Language as a Leadership Tool - GeneralLeadership“Man acts as though he were the shaper and master of language, while in fact language remains the master of man.”
Martin Heidegger

Are you a leader? If you are, it is time to look at how you and those around you use language, because language is one of your fundamental tools. Understanding how the spoken word affects and creates our world will play a role in your success. What is language, and how do we as humans and leaders use it to create our worlds and our future? Some deep stuff but let’s have fun with it.

We are (almost) always in language – Ours is a world of words. Most of our daily life is transactional – we are communicating with others, and with ourselves, using language.  Unless we are alone experiencing a magnificent sunset, meditating, in Flow, or some other transcendent experience – we are thinking in language or speaking. We are defining, sorting and describing; a cat is a cat because we call it a cat in language, and if we come upon an unfamiliar furry animal with whiskers whose name we don’t know, we will use language to describe it.

When you use language you are actually taking action – The act of using language is to take action. Think about the simple act of saying, “I will!” versus saying “I’ll try.”  When you say, “I will!” you are creating a different commitment and expectations. If you ask friends to come over to your house for a BBQ on Saturday, and one friend says, “I will be there!” and the other says, “I’ll try to be there,” – which friend do you think will be at your party? Commitment and action are created in the words chosen. This is why the correct answer when reciting wedding vows is a solemn, “I do.” not “I’ll give it a try!”

Language does not just describe, it creates – Language, however, does more than describe things, it creates our world and our future. The simple act of calling a friend for lunch is opening up a new future that could not exist prior to the request. This happens with our past, our present, and our futures. We are always creating them in language. When you think of a past event, it is how you shape it in language that re-creates it today. If your team lost the big game you have a different past, and a different storyline, than a fan whose team won. Regardless of what image you create, you have created it in language. As a leader how you use language creates what is possible for those around you.

We create meaning through language – Do you care about 16th century art?  If you do then you will, through language, have conversations about it. If you do not, then likely you will not have conversations about it. Regardless of where your passions are, when you care about something and discuss it, you give it meaning, As a leader, what you choose to talk about, what you determine has meaning, is where your organization is going to focus. If you put emphasis on safety that is the meaning you are creating for others. If you regard safety as a waste of time, and don’t talk about it, then that is the meaning you are creating.

Reality does not match our interpretations – Experiments have shown that we all experience events differently, it is our explanation of what has happened that gives it meaning for us. We all re-create the event using language. My assessment of how a meeting went will likely be different from yours. This happens all the time. We observed what we observed, not necessarily what happened. The challenge is that our explanations and interpretations are influenced by our state of mind and our history, and that affects what meaning we will create in language about the event.

Language helps us create context – Let’s all stand together and observe a painting. What does it mean? Well, from the perspective of the artist it may mean one or multiple things. To the art critic is means other things. To you, it may be meaningless paint on canvas, or it may give you a powerfully inspiring experience. But the language used by the artist or the critic, or the person standing next to you, can give you useful context. If you learned that our painting was painted by a 6-year-old prodigy then you might have a different perspective, and that was created in language.

Language creates your relationships – The word ‘boss’ carries many connotations; from childhood as in, “Don’t boss me around,” to Best Boss Ever, to the absolute worst. But for each of us the word has a meaning and creates the relationship. You likely have a different relationship with your boss than you have with your sister, or your neighbor, or best friend. The moment we have a relationship, we create it through language. Someone is a stranger, then an acquaintance, then a friend, then a close friend, and possibly your best friend. Each of those relationships has different meanings and those meanings determine what conversations and actions are available in that relationship. Other than perhaps your partner, and family members, most of our relationships are only created in language and our communication is not physical in nature.

Language creates your public identity – If your boss says in a meeting, “You are always late!” he just helped created your public identity. John is smart! John is dumb! Both statements affect the public identity of John. Want to see it in action, just look at the majority of political branding and advertising. Each side picks one or two choice negative labels they hope to stick on the other side’s candidate in order to do damage. Public identity is created in language. Your public identity influences the conversations that are open to you or closed to you.

How does all of this apply to you as a leader? How you use language and how you understand the use of language can shift how you communicate and interpret behavior and events day to day. It is a powerful skill to be able to better interpret the behavior and motivations of your employees or team members through their use of language. The same principle applies when you’re dealing with multicultural teams or serving clients from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Misinterpretations or unconscious bias rooted in language gaps can inadvertently create inaccurate identities or assumptions about others, which in turn shape how they are perceived and treated. That’s why inclusive, accurate communication is not a luxury—it’s a leadership imperative. Tools like an Online Interpreter are invaluable in these contexts, enabling leaders to foster clarity and respect in multilingual environments. By ensuring that every voice is heard as it’s intended, these platforms do more than translate words—they protect identity, preserve intent, and open up conversations that might otherwise remain closed.

In essence, they allow leaders to honor the dignity and potential of every individual by making sure that language becomes a bridge, not a barrier. Language is not just a tool for conveying information; it’s a vehicle for understanding the deeper emotions and intentions behind the words, which can enhance your ability to make informed decisions and provide tailored support to your team.

A language learning platform like Pinhok Language can be incredibly valuable for leaders who aim to improve their communication skills and enhance their understanding of their team. By expanding your language abilities, you not only increase your proficiency in speaking different languages, but you also become better equipped to understand the perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and motivations of those you lead.

Whether you’re managing a diverse, multilingual team or working in international settings, using tools like vocabulary books and flashcards from Pinhok Language can help you connect more meaningfully with individuals across various linguistic backgrounds. Mastering these tools fosters an environment of inclusivity, empathy, and clear communication, empowering you as a leader to interpret and respond to your team’s needs more effectively. Language is our most fundamental human tool. Our ability to understand it and use it well will determine what future we create. And is that not the goal of a leader, to create the future?

How did you enjoy today’s post?
If you liked what you read, sign up for our frequent newsletter by clicking HERE — and you’ll also receive our handy Leader’s Reference List
as our free gift to you!
Croft Edwards on LinkedinCroft Edwards on Twitter
Croft Edwards
Croft Edwards
Author at GeneralLeadership.com
Croft Edwards, Master Certified Coach, is a recognized expert and thought leader in the field of leadership. His expertise is in LeadershipFlow, the melding of transformational leadership and the science and study of Flow, the state of ultimate human performance. He is the president of CROFT + Company, a global leadership and change coaching and consulting firm, with clients in fields from oil, gas and mining, to healthcare, government agencies, and small business. Croft is also a senior Army Reserve officer serving in both active duty and reserve units in leadership and command positions. An active blogger on both general leadership.com and croftandcompany.com, he is dedicated to helping readers better tap their hidden leadership potential. You can learn more about Croft at croftandcompany.com, and linkedin/in/croftedwards.
Tags: behavior, Communication, Croft Edwards, language, tools

Comments (1)

Add a comment Top
  1. Steffanie Barger
    25Jun2016 (Sat) @ 2254CDT

    Emotional intelligence and the ability to use language can inspire the world. Positive leadership through our words is a game changer for everyone involved. I wish many of our politicians and leaders took this approach. We all lead in some way by example. Imagine if we focus on leading by connecting with positive, meaningful language… We could change the world in a day.

    Reply

Add a comment Cancel Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Log in

Our Authors

  • KevinBemel

    KevinBemel

    KevinBemel
    Total Post :0

  • tomdorl

    tomdorl

    tomdorl
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Applying Leadership by the Numbers
  • philmorrison

    philmorrison

    philmorrison
    Total Post :0

  • GenPaulMcGillicuddy

    General Paul McGillicuddy

    GenPaulMcGillicuddy
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Secret Traits Of Championship Teams
  • NikSanginiti

    NikSanginiti

    NikSanginiti
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Intern Perspective: Overcoming Adversity
    • Intern Perspective: Enduring Excellence
  • ChristianKnutson

    ChristianKnutson

    ChristianKnutson
    Total Post :15

    Recent Posts
    • What Is Upward Leadership and Why You Need to Be Effective Doing It
    • Using Intelligence Theory to Lead and Unlock Creativity
    • How Mindset Can Affect Organizational Leadership
    • Sustaining High Performance In Your Teams
    • Embracing Stress To Lead Others Effectively
  • jkunkel

    jkunkel

    jkunkel
    Total Post :0

  • CroftEdwards

    CroftEdwards

    CroftEdwards
    Total Post :16

    Recent Posts
    • LeadershipFlow - Perfectly Square: A Story About Learning to Lead
    • Leadership: This AND That, Not This OR That
    • Can I Trust You As A Leader?
    • Hey Leader—What are You Fighting FOR?
    • Is It Time For A Leadership Break?
  • jscotheathman

    Scot

    jscotheathman
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Authenticity Is The Secret Sauce
  • KenMcQuiston

    KenMcQuiston

    KenMcQuiston
    Total Post :0

  • JeffreySmith

    JeffreySmith

    JeffreySmith
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Values-Based Leadership
  • BobGaylor

    BobGaylor

    BobGaylor
    Total Post :3

    Recent Posts
    • About Saying "I Love You"
    • I Like Hot French Fries
    • Cubs and Aspirations - Humor from Section 220
  • KimberlyHuth

    KimberlyHuth

    KimberlyHuth
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Encourage TRUST in Your Workplace
  • DavidESpector

    DavidESpector

    DavidESpector
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Are you Chewing Your Way Through Life?
    • Watch your Step
  • JoeThornell

    JoeThornell

    JoeThornell
    Total Post :29

    Recent Posts
    • It's Time for a Leadership Checkup!
    • Effective Leadership requires Key Ingredients
    • Leadership is Representation
    • Leadership in Stasis
    • Leadership Can Be Destructive
  • ColToddHirneisen

    ColToddHirneisen

    ColToddHirneisen
    Total Post :15

    Recent Posts
    • The Leadership Experience
    • It’s your stage, what do you do with it?
    • Opportunity: Don't Do Anything
    • Anarchy in the Workplace
    • Faking Your Way to Authenticity
  • CRStricklin

    CRStricklin

    CRStricklin
    Total Post :35

    Recent Posts
    • 3 Elements of A Shared Mental Model...The Thunderbird Way
    • The Passion of Leadership
    • Lead at the Speed of Trust
    • 4 All-Encompassing Effective Leadership Styles
    • Perfection Found in a Fighter Debrief
  • JasonMBrown

    JasonMBrown

    JasonMBrown
    Total Post :4

    Recent Posts
    • Creating a Problem-Solving Team
    • Every Team Needs A Coach
    • Think Twice Before Going Back to the Basics
    • The Two Most Important Questions In Leadership
  • kentlandreth

    kentlandreth

    kentlandreth
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Train Your Replacement... Not Your Clone!
    • Lead with Your Feet
  • maddison

    Mickey Addison

    maddison
    Total Post :29

    Recent Posts
    • Leaders Are Readers
    • High Performing Leaders Live a Balanced Life
    • What is Synchronized Leadership?
    • Continuing the Mission - Your First 30 Days
    • Continuing the Mission - The First 100 Days
  • johnalbers

    johnalbers

    johnalbers
    Total Post :12

    Recent Posts
    • Credibility: Do you have it?
    • Experience - Is It Really the Best Teacher?
    • Passionate Leadership
    • Lessons on Leadership from Fishing (part II)
    • Lessons on Leadership from Fishing (part I)
  • SHIP

    SHIP

    SHIP
    Total Post :3

    Recent Posts
    • Priorities: A Different Approach
    • 6 Rules Learned in Afghanistan
    • Performance or Potential
  • dmcohen01

    Dave

    dmcohen01
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Frozen Leadership
    • Forget Big and Flashy: Go For the Little Wow!
  • jokercarey

    jokercarey

    jokercarey
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • A Mother's Day Perspective
    • A Mother's Day Perspective
  • AngelaMaiers

    AngelaMaiers

    AngelaMaiers
    Total Post :4

    Recent Posts
    • The 5 C's of Passion Driven Leadership
    • A “To Be” List for Aspiring Leaders
    • Passion-Driven Leadership
    • Tactical Serendipity: Is Randomness Part of Your Leadership Strategy?
  • Geno Redmon

    Geno Redmon

    Geno Redmon
    Total Post :14

    Recent Posts
    • Lessons in Top Gun Leadership: The Fine Art of Delivering Corrective-Action
    • Top Gun Leadership: The Fine Art of Delivering Corrective Action.
    • Top Gun Leadership: Butt-Chewing 101 (pt 1 of 3)
    • Top Gun Leadership - Part 6
    • Top Gun Leadership Series - Part 5
  • ChrisPLevy

    Christopher P Levy

    ChrisPLevy
    Total Post :36

    Recent Posts
    • Construction or Demolition
    • Leading Leaders - How to be Successful
    • Go Ahead and Quit!
    • Self-Discipline, a Must for Team Success
    • Bridging the Divide
  • chrisrstricklin

    Chris_Stricklin

    chrisrstricklin
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • Monday Quote
  • dvanwig

    dvanwig

    dvanwig
    Total Post :4

    Recent Posts
    • You Are Free To Choose
    • Working For A Higher Purpose
    • Your Glass Can Be More Than Half Full
    • Prepare for the Future with a Completed Bucket List
  • khinparadise

    Mike Klintworth

    khinparadise
    Total Post :3

    Recent Posts
    • From Technical Expert to Successful Leader
    • 7 Essentials for Building a Dream Team
    • The Bridge To Your Big Dream
  • GenAllenJamerson

    General Allen Jamerson

    GenAllenJamerson
    Total Post :3

    Recent Posts
    • Social Media: A Professional’s Best Tool Used Wisely!
    • Leading with Moral Courage
    • Leading with Moral Courage
  • GenRogerBrady

    General Roger Brady

    GenRogerBrady
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • The One Reason Why We Still Insist on Honesty
    • The One Reason Why We Still Insist on Honesty
  • jslevin

    jslevin

    jslevin
    Total Post :15

    Recent Posts
    • Business Wisdom Learned From Bomb Squad Experts And Their Commanders
    • How Well Are You Leveraging The Different Thinking Styles Of Your Teams
    • Business Management Lessons from a San Francisco Bus Driver
    • DeCluttering - Your Way To Brilliance
    • Talent Stars - Don't Burn Your Shine!
  • GenGaryHughey

    General Gary Hughey

    GenGaryHughey
    Total Post :3

    Recent Posts
    • Any Job Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Right the First Time
    • Work is Honorable
    • Leadership and the Work Ethic
  • GarthStl

    GarthStl

    GarthStl
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Time Waits for Nobody
    • Emotional Intelligence and A Call-Up to the Big Leagues
  • GenMichaelDiamond

    General Michael Diamond

    GenMichaelDiamond
    Total Post :4

    Recent Posts
    • What Happened to Long Term? - Pt 1
    • Leading the Right Team
    • Can Leaders be Heroes?
    • Generalship: 10 Traits Needed by Every Leader
  • GenJerryMartinez

    General Jerry Martinez

    GenJerryMartinez
    Total Post :2

    Recent Posts
    • Simulated Leadership
    • Simulated Leadership
  • GenJamesVechery

    General James Vechery

    GenJamesVechery
    Total Post :10

    Recent Posts
    • Passing the Baton: Leadership in Transition
    • Leadership Can Be Measured In Inches, Not Just Miles!
    • N is for Never Setting Your Goals Too Low
    • A Positive Attitude is Contagious
    • V is for Visionary Leadership: Move the Ball Down the Field
  • GenKathleenGainey

    General Kathleen Gainey

    GenKathleenGainey
    Total Post :1

    Recent Posts
    • The 3 Simple Rules of Effective Feedback
  • ColMattFritz

    Matthew Fritz

    ColMattFritz
    Total Post :15

    Recent Posts
    • A Tribute To Veterans - Solemnly Remember
    • A Day Short of Missing History
    • Why We Write...
    • Ask GeneralLeadership
    • Tune in Tonight! - 9pm Eastern - SiriusXM Patriot Channel 125!
  • GenJohnMichel

    General John Michel

    GenJohnMichel
    Total Post :92

    Recent Posts
    • Why Less is Best
    • Influence: Never Underestimate Your Impact
    • Seize the Moment
    • Vetrepreneur: Perpetual Payback
    • The Dual Pillars of Character: Strength & Honor