Impactful Communication: Alison Godfrey Of Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute On 5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator
An Interview With Athalia Monae
Storytelling is one of the most effective communication techniques. There was a time I was giving a presentation to some clients about team collaboration. Instead of simply listing facts and statistics about the benefits of teamwork, I went a step further to share a story about a time when my team faced a major challenge, how we worked together to solve it, and the positive outcome that resulted. Narrating this as a story not only illustrated the point but also made sure I tapped into the audience’s emotions, making the lesson more impactful.
In an age dominated by digital communication, the power of articulate and effective verbal communication cannot be understated. Whether it’s delivering a keynote address, leading a team meeting, or engaging in a one-on-one conversation, impactful speaking can open doors, inspire change, and create lasting impressions. But what truly sets apart an effective communicator? What techniques and nuances elevate a speech from mundane to memorable? As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Alison Godfrey.
Alison Godfrey is a seasoned Executive Coach, Facilitator, and former corporate C-suite executive with over 4 decades of experience, including years of empowering leaders and teams to achieve their full potential. She is an integral part of the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute, affiliated with UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business Executive Education, where she delivers immersive training and distance learning to executives and aspiring coaches. Alison has also served as an Assistant Lecturer at Haas, teaching Executive Leadership and Communication to Executive MBA candidates.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about communication, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
One of the most pivotal moments in my life came when the lab where I was CEO reporting to Bill Gates, was shut down. Initially, I felt devastated and uncertain about my future, wondering how I could replace such an important role and what my next steps would be. But overtime, I managed to reframe this experience not as a personal failure, but as an opportunity for growth and a chance to start anew.
At first, I found myself blaming the closure on my own performance, even though it was out of my control. The pandemic was upon us. With the help of coaching, I learned to pivot and embraced a new career path as an executive coach. I had already earned my certification to become leader as coach, when, an unexpected opportunity arose for me to assist in teaching leadership and communication at the Haas Business School. This was a fresh challenge, especially as the pandemic shifted everything to virtual platforms, which introduced me to the world of online coaching. This transition allowed me to continue my passion for leadership development while working with clients and colleagues from around the world.
Though I hadn’t originally planned to become an executive coach, adapting to this new direction brought a renewed sense of purpose. Like so many others, I experienced moments of helplessness, hopelessness, and a loss of control, especially after having relocated for my previous role. But instead of staying in those emotions, I used resilience to transform a challenging moment into a meaningful career pivot, embracing growth along the way.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
The most delightful personal story I have is that I started as a laboratory research founder, with an angel investor, in Israel. That time helped me learn so much about a different culture. We had a collaboration with ENEA (Italian National Agency for New Technologies & Energy) and I ended up pretty much living in Rome which turned out to be an extraordinary experience.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
- Self-awareness: One of the most important traits has been recognizing and managing my own tendencies, especially my inner controlling personality. As a “Jersey Girl,” I have the urge to control everything and everyone, even things beyond my influence. Over the years, I’ve learned to catch myself when that urge arises and make conscious efforts to step back. This self-awareness has been crucial in building effective relationships and creating a collaborative environment in both my personal and professional life. I did everything that I thought was within my power to bring a team of scientists from Italy to our laboratory in TX. After months of work, their existing employer would not allow a leave of absence. I was in shock that it didn’t go my way. You can’t control what you are not in control of.
- Adaptability: Another essential trait is adaptability, especially when I notice myself wanting to nurture or “fix” situations. While my instinct is often to jump in and help, I’ve learned that doing so, especially in a leadership role, can sometimes hinder growth or solutions from emerging organically. Recognizing this in myself has helped me step back and allow others to learn and develop on their own, fostering greater team autonomy and resilience. I had to step back and get out of the way of my COO in the lab in TX. We were at different ends of the spectrum on a crucial personnel decision. When I realized that it was not my decision to make, I could get out of his way and honor his sphere of control.
- Extroversion: Lastly, being a natural extrovert has been a major asset, especially in today’s digital world. I can spend long hours on Zoom connecting with people, which energizes me and helps me maintain strong, engaged relationships. This ability to communicate and connect easily has enabled me to lead teams effectively and drive positive outcomes, whether in person or virtually. I had to make the transition from being fed in person to being fed in video meetings. That change saved me energetically.
These traits — self-awareness, adaptability, and extroversion — have not only shaped my leadership style but have also contributed significantly to my success.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Let’s begin with a basic definition so that we are all on the same page. How would you define an “Effective Communicator?” What are the characteristics of an effective communicator?
An effective communicator is an individual that is not wedded to their own style of communication, and is an expert not just in listening but in hearing. You are paying attention to the verbal and non-verbal. What’s behind the words? What is the person really expressing and how are they feeling? Basically, you are listening not to reply, but to understand.
How can one tailor their communication style to different audiences or situations?
To tailor one’s communication style to different audiences or situations, a foundation of open curiosity is highly effective. You have to learn to approach conversations with genuine interest and by asking questions, we create a space for others to express themselves authentically. In turn this helps us to observe and adapt based on how each person responds, tuning into their unique communication cues and adjusting our tone or questions to align with their comfort and preferences. This flexibility not only enhances rapport but also ensures that the interaction feels natural and engaging for both parties.
Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt your communication style to reach a particular audience successfully?
Certainly! My words could change based on the culture and background of the person(s) in front of me, because words and concepts are heard differently. So, there was a particular time when I had to speak to a client who was culturally very direct. I recognized that adding too much detail or “fluff” would likely frustrate them or obscure my main message. So, I focused on delivering my points clearly and concisely, without extra elaboration. This approach allowed them to fully grasp my intent without second-guessing or interpreting nuances. I learned that adapting my style in this way helped ensure that my message was understood as intended, which is the core purpose of effective communication.
How do you handle difficult or sensitive conversations while maintaining open and effective communication?
To handle difficult or sensitive conversations while keeping communication open and effective, I’ve learned to entirely reframe the idea of “difficult”. When I need to address a potentially sensitive topic, I aim to be direct and honest, sharing my observations without attaching any emotion — no blame, judgment, or excess enthusiasm. My goal is to simply present what I’ve observed and then ask reflective questions, like, “Is this the impact you intended?” or “Is this action congruent with how you feel about the situation?”
This approach shifts the focus into growth and self-reflection, giving the other person space to consider their actions without feeling defensive. I work with leaders who sometimes operate in “kind cultures,” where feedback is often avoided to maintain harmony. In these cases, I encourage open discussions on the impact of decisions and opportunities for improvement, transforming potentially difficult conversations into collaborative growth moments.
In your experience, how does storytelling play a role in impactful speaking? Why do you think stories are effective in communication?
Storytelling is essential in impactful speaking because it naturally engages people. Through friends like Devin Marks, a TEDx storyteller, and Robin Rice, a master storyteller, as well as courses from Berkeley’s executive coaching program, I learned the power of a well-told story in communication. A story has a beginning, middle, and end, and often includes a call to action. In leadership and communication, presenting information as a story draws people in, evoking emotion and interest. Without it, an audience may disengage or lose focus, but with a story, they stay connected and invested in the message.
What are your “5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator”?
1 . Storytelling is one of the most effective communication techniques. There was a time I was giving a presentation to some clients about team collaboration. Instead of simply listing facts and statistics about the benefits of teamwork, I went a step further to share a story about a time when my team faced a major challenge, how we worked together to solve it, and the positive outcome that resulted. Narrating this as a story not only illustrated the point but also made sure I tapped into the audience’s emotions, making the lesson more impactful.
2 . One essential technique for effective communication is mastering nonverbal cues, particularly facial expressions, as they heavily impact how others perceive our message. For example, when I was training to teach at Berkeley, Prof (Dr.) Mark Rittenberg pointed out that my natural resting face appeared unintentionally stern. This feedback made me realize the importance of refining my expressions to convey openness and approachability. Since we instinctively react to nonverbal communication — even on Zoom where only faces may be visible — it’s crucial to practice expressions, even if it means using a mirror. This attention to nonverbal cues ensures that I’m not only heard but also understood in the way I intend, making communication more effective and accessible.
3 . One essential technique I’ve mastered for becoming an effective communicator is using vocal variety. I always try to modulate my voice to help maintain the listener’s interest and reinforce the message’s meaning. Without vocal variety, speech can become monotone, losing emotional depth and engagement. Effective communicators use changes in pitch, tone, and emphasis to highlight key points and keep the audience’s attention. It not only helps prevent boredom but also ensures that the message resonates more deeply, making communication dynamic and impactful.
4 . Another important communication technique is energy matching. As someone who naturally exudes a lot of energy, I’ve learned that I must adjust my approach when engaging with quieter or more introverted individuals. If I don’t, my high energy can overwhelm them, and they may start withdrawing. By noticing signs that someone is becoming less engaged, I consciously dial back my own energy — speaking slower and softer — to create a more comfortable environment for them. This technique helps ensure that communication remains balanced, respectful, and effective, allowing both parties to connect without feeling overwhelmed.
5 . Active listening is one of the simplest yet most powerful techniques for effective communication and it’s amazing how often it gets overlooked. It’s not just about hearing words; it’s about genuinely focusing on what the other person is saying and, just as importantly, what they might not be saying. I remember a project kickoff meeting where a client seemed hesitant about our proposed deadlines. Instead of brushing past it, I paused and asked a few questions to really understand their concerns. We dug into what was behind their hesitation, and I learned they had other project dependencies that hadn’t come up before. Taking that extra time to listen fully not only helped us avoid potential issues but also showed the client that we truly cared about their priorities. This simple act of listening carefully and with compassion creates a foundation of trust, which makes every other part of communication easier and more authentic.
How do you integrate non-verbal cues into your communication? Can you provide an example of its importance?
I’m always working to make sure my non-verbal cues are in alignment with what I’m trying to say because I know how powerful they are in shaping how others feel. Body language, eye contact, facial expressions even something as simple as how I’m sitting, all play a role in building trust and making people feel heard. I’ve learned that sometimes my face can look more serious than I intend, so I make a conscious effort to keep my expression open and welcoming, especially in conversations where I want the other person to feel at ease.
One moment that really drove this home was during a meeting with a new client. As they shared their goals and concerns, I leaned in a bit, kept steady eye contact, and nodded as they spoke. I could actually see them start to relax and feel comfortable opening up even more. That small adjustment in my body language made them feel like I was fully there with them, and the conversation naturally became more honest and productive. We both walked away with a much more clear understanding of how to move forward together.
Non-verbal cues aren’t just the “extras” in communication; they’re an essential part of how we connect. Simple changes in how we present ourselves physically can make the difference between a message feeling sincere or falling flat.
How has digital communication changed the way you convey your messages? Are there any specific challenges or advantages you’ve encountered?
Digital communication has taught me the importance of clarity and intentionality. I’ve adopted the acronym WAIT, meaning “Why Am I Talking?” This doesn’t mean to be silent but rather to focus on the essence of my message — what’s the key takeaway I want the other person to understand? With digital platforms often requiring brevity and precision, I’ve moved away from over-explaining and instead focus on getting straight to the point. Knowing that what I have to say or ask is important has helped me communicate more effectively in digital spaces, ensuring my messages are clear and impactful without overwhelming the recipient.
Public speaking is a common fear. What techniques or strategies do you recommend to manage and overcome stage fright?
Public speaking is a common fear, but there are effective techniques to manage and overcome stage fright. One powerful strategy I learned is to record yourself during practice and watch the video with a focused observation sheet. Pay attention to what makes successful presenters resonate with you, such as those in TED Talks, and identify what they’re doing well. Reflect on your own message — do you believe you have something valuable to say? If you do, that confidence will help you shift your focus away from self-criticism to the message itself.
Additionally, thinking through key elements like energy, structure (beginning, middle, and end), and a clear call to action helps you focus on communication tools rather than worrying about how you look or sound. By thinking about how you want your audience to feel and what they will remember about your message, you reduce the self-oriented fear and make the experience more about delivering value than about how you appear.
What additional resources do you recommend for individuals looking to improve communication skills?
For individuals looking to improve their communication skills, I highly recommend subscribing to the Harvard Business Review (HBR). The articles there are invaluable and worth their weight in gold for anyone serious about enhancing their communication. Additionally, there are countless books on the subject, but I would suggest starting with articles for a quick dive into key concepts.
If you learn best through listening, podcasts and audiobooks on communication are fantastic resources. There are many available that cover various aspects of effective communication, and they allow you to absorb valuable insights on the go.
Additionally, you can just google “TED Talks on communication” and see what resonates with you. I think TED Talks are wonderful. There’s an old one of Steve jobs presenting the MacBook Air which is the quintessential example of extraordinary communication skills.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the learning style that suits you best — whether through reading or listening — and seeking out resources in that category.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could start a movement that would bring the most good to the most people, it would focus on cultivating the ability to truly hear and understand ideas that differ from our own. This would involve setting aside blame, judgment, and prejudice, and showing up with an open mind in the present moment. It’s not about labeling ideas as right or wrong but about listening deeply to understand the perspective of others. While it’s essential to be clear on our own foundational values, this movement would encourage us to seek the greater good beyond ourselves — fostering empathy, collaboration, and collective progress for all.
How can our readers further follow you online?
You can follow me on my personal LinkedIn page (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisongodfrey/) for more information and industry updates.
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About the Interviewer: Athalia Monae is a product creator, published author, entrepreneur, advocate for Feed Our Starving Children, contributing writer for Entrepreneur Media, and founder of Pouches By Alahta.
Impactful Communication: Alison Godfrey Of Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute On 5 Essential… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.