Impactful Communication: Author Molly McGrath On 5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator
An Interview With Athalia Monae
Technique number one is vulnerability, which involves acknowledging your vulnerabilities. It takes the top spot. It’s about recognizing the emotions you experienced and how they affected the situation, such as admitting, ‘I know I was angry. I was upset,’ or something similar.
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 Molly McGrath, the Founder and CEO of Hiring & Empowering Solutions.
Molly McGrath is the Founder and CEO of Hiring & Empowering Solutions and the author of Amazon’s top #1 Best Seller: ‘Fix My Boss: The Simple Plan to Cultivate Respect, Risk Courageous Conversations, and Increase the Bottom Line.’
She is a thought leader with 27 years of experience in the CEO space. Since the late nineties, Molly has coached, consulted, and directed presidents and founders of national organizations and over 4,500 law firms in executive-level leadership, continuous improvement, and team empowerment initiatives to infiltrate new markets, leverage partner ecosystems, and produce profitability.
Molly has about 30 years of specific skillset experience in legal CMO marketing, fractional CEO roles, conversation intelligence coaching, team development & empowerment, intrapreneur talent acquisition, Kaizen leadership, root cause analysis, revenue mapping, and action-based project management.
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?
Many people say that my career path was not one I chose, but rather one that chose me. I moved from Buffalo, New York, to Denver, Colorado, and back in 1997, I answered a classified ad in the paper. Through that, I applied for a position with an organization called the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys. At this time, this organization provided coaching, communication, leadership, management, systems, and processes, in addition to technology, trust drafting software, and technical legal education for estate planning attorneys.
I was at the age of 27 and I had never come into contact with the law. My desire for this job stemmed not only from being offered it but also from discovering a specific type of attorney known as an estate planning and elder law attorney. Before this, I had limited knowledge about this sphere, assuming it was only for the wealthy.
I also never knew anything about coaching. This was in the mid to late nineties when coaching was not widely known or practiced, at least not in my experience. I had never been exposed to communication styles or the art of coaching before.
Thus, I was hired as an administrative assistant to help launch the very first communication and coaching program for attorneys. We were focused on how to run a business, build a business, hire employees, and retain them.
From the very first day that we participated in the initial coaching program with the group of attorneys, I immediately fell in love with this field. Estate planning and elder law attorneys are often referred to as social workers with a law degree, and what I love most about them is their compassion and empathy. They lead with deep curiosity and investment in working with their clients and employees.
I have been working in this sphere for 30 years and through my coaching, consulting, and training, I have realized that effective communication is at the core of everything. Speaking into another’s listening in a way that makes a difference is crucial.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
I teach law firms across the country. I’ve taught and coached over 4,500 law firms on how to run their operations. What’s most interesting is that I don’t have a college degree or legal background, yet attorneys from all over the United States, along with their support team members, come to me for expertise and advice. One particularly intriguing scenario is when a law firm contacts me with concerns about a disgruntled employee or team performance issues.
For example, recently, I had a Zoom session with a highly profitable and successful law firm that was struggling to maintain its success. Despite being experts in their field, they faced challenges in maintaining consistency and persistence within their team.
Rather than resorting to firing employees, we worked together to address communication barriers and implement effective strategies. Ultimately, this approach helped to turn the law firm’s performance around, demonstrating the power of effective communication in resolving workplace challenges.
I’m convinced that communication is fundamental in any relationship, including business. People are human beings first and foremost, not just human doings. By observing body language, and tone, and asking powerful questions, we were able to uncover underlying issues and create a safe space for honest dialogue.
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?
The first character trait is the ability to have upfront, real-time courageous conversations. It takes just a few seconds of insane courage to speak openly, and the truth will set you free. You need to have the confidence to express yourself with honesty while being respectful, considering tonality, and energy.
This brings me to the second characteristic that I believe is essential for a successful business owner: vulnerability. Successful business owners are willing to share from a vulnerable space how they are feeling and what is stopping them. It’s about recognizing the emotions you experienced and how they affected the situation.
The first step in any endeavor is awareness, followed by taking responsibility. Leaders should couple vulnerability with awareness of their impact on others and take responsibility for it. They should be able to openly acknowledge and share their actions without feeling shame, blame, or embarrassment. They need to govern themselves and be self-aware, taking responsibility for their role in any situation.
As goes the coach, so goes the team. In my experience, as a successful business owner, when leaders walk their talk and demonstrate this vulnerability, awareness, and responsibility, people will support them every single day of the week.
Additionally, I believe that a successful business owner is proactive in taking action. This entails actively seeking feedback from employees, team members, advisors, or other sources, and making clear decisions rather than delaying or avoiding them. Successful leaders take prompt and decisive action, avoiding circular discussions. When people see you in action and realize that you’re really open and deeply curious, then 100% they will never leave you; in fact, they’ll take a bullet for you.
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?
Effective communicators are self-aware and effective in their communication because they can clarify and verify. They have the ability to leverage the power of the pause, cutting through stories, emotions, and unnecessary details to focus on the core message.
If they are the message deliverer, they will be clear, concise, and well-communicated. When they are receiving the information, they are locking arms, engaging in banter rather than being in monologue. They will clarify and verify afterward, saying, “What I hear you saying,” “Just to reflect,” or “Just to debrief.” They actively listen and ensure understanding. I acknowledge that these terms may seem like buzzwords, but effective communicators consistently employ these practices at the end of every interaction to be sure that everyone is on the same page.
How can one tailor their communication style to different audiences or situations?
I believe in the power of tailoring the communication style to meet the unique needs of others, aiming to positively impact their experiences. One effective strategy involves understanding various styles, particularly by identifying individuals’ strengths and social preferences. This communication style encompasses more than just spoken words; it also includes body language and how others engage with you.
Personally, when tailoring my approach, especially in one-on-one interactions such as sales meetings with new employees, during hiring processes, onboarding sessions, employee reviews, or performance evaluations, as well as in larger settings like sales meetings or presentations, I pay close attention to the cues and signals in the room. I invest time in understanding various styles of interaction, both verbal and nonverbal, to ensure effective communication. Additionally, I actively seek clarification and feedback from others on how they prefer to receive information.
For instance, if someone is a high-achiever or a business owner, they tend to prefer getting to the point rather than delving into all the details. When speaking with this person, my focus is always on ensuring clarity and confirming understanding quickly, to achieve a successful outcome 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?
My communication style is that I am a bottom-line person. I don’t have the capacity or the bandwidth for a tremendous amount of detail, but when I work with attorneys, for example, I should be flexible. They often adhere to a different communication style, being predominantly analytical, fact-finders who value details, tend to talk at length, and typically speak slowly and methodically.
What I do is simply obtain permission to set the agenda. For instance, if our meeting today is scheduled for 1 hour, I tailor my approach to the attorneys’ preferences. They require a clear structure: the beginning, the middle, the end, and the why. Therefore, I outline the agenda accordingly. I might say, ‘We’ll start with the introduction, move to the main discussion between minutes 22 and 30, and conclude around 50 minutes, leaving the last 10 minutes for any questions or clarifications, as well as discussing the next steps. Our next meeting is scheduled for next week at 2 o’clock, where we’ll address specific topics.’ Providing this structure ensures their engagement.
How do you handle difficult or sensitive conversations while maintaining open and effective communication?
I would say 100% of the conversations I have led for the past 28 years have been difficult and sensitive. When I approach these discussions, I pay close attention to nonverbal cues and set the stage carefully.
I draw inspiration from principles outlined in books like “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…And Others Don’t” by Jim Collins to underscore the importance of candid conversations in any organization. I always try to encourage honesty and transparency, emphasizing that everyone’s input is valuable.
Before entering the conversation, it’s necessary to know the backstory and the resistance from the other person. It’s important not to start the discussion by hitting them with the tough issues right away. Instead, I usually try to gradually peel back the layers to ensure that everyone feels included and engaged.
I approach these conversations with a light-hearted demeanor, avoiding a clinical or confrontational tone. Communication isn’t just about the words we use; it’s also about the atmosphere we create. I try to make it clear that the goal of our conversation is open communication and mutual understanding.
When I sense discomfort or disengagement from the other person, I address it directly and create a safe space for them to express themselves. I’m willing to acknowledge my own mistakes and take responsibility for my actions, fostering an environment of trust and respect.
In summary, I approach difficult conversations with empathy, openness, and a commitment to finding common ground. By creating a supportive atmosphere and encouraging honest dialogue, I strive to achieve positive outcomes for all involved parties.
In your experience, how does storytelling play a role in impactful speaking? Why do you think stories are effective in communication?
Storytelling can be a powerful tool in communication when used appropriately. Effective narratives allow people to envision themselves within the story, empathizing with the challenges presented and finding resonance with the solutions offered. When executed effectively, narratives can be a compelling way to communicate ideas and inspire action.
However, it’s important to strike a balance. While stories should not involve manipulation or comparison, they should engage the audience without feeling forced. Unfortunately, there is an overuse of storytelling, particularly in written and verbal communication and presentations, which can dilute its impact.
What are your “5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator”?
- Technique number one is vulnerability, which involves acknowledging your vulnerabilities. It takes the top spot. It’s about recognizing the emotions you experienced and how they affected the situation, such as admitting, ‘I know I was angry. I was upset,’ or something similar.
- Technique number two is setting the agenda. Sometimes, I see people say, ‘We need to have a meeting,’ and then only schedule 15 minutes. But there’s no way you can address a significant breakdown in communication in just 15 minutes. It’s essential to be realistic about both the timing and the agenda before you meet.
- Then comes the debrief. It’s essential to conduct a debrief at the end of every communication, regardless of its nature, to ensure that insights are gained, lessons are learned, and future interactions are improved.
- Another crucial technique for becoming an effective communicator is to always plan for the next step, which includes scheduling a follow-up meeting after each interaction. It helps everyone involved know the details of the meeting, including who, what, where, when, and why.
- And the fifth point would be checking in. On a scale of 1 to 10, it might be like using a scorecard. How effective was this meeting for you? Did you get everything that you wanted out of it? It’s essential to evaluate its effectiveness, gather feedback, and assess whether the desired outcomes were achieved. This helps us understand what worked well and what needs improvement for more productive future meetings.
How do you integrate non-verbal cues into your communication? Can you provide an example of its importance?
To integrate non-verbal cues into my communication, I conscientiously observe body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice during interactions. These cues provide valuable insights into the emotions, thoughts, and intentions of the other person, allowing me to tailor my responses and adapt my communication style accordingly. By attuning myself to these non-verbal signals, I ensure that my message is conveyed effectively and that I foster better understanding and connection with others.
How has digital communication changed the way you convey your messages? Are there any specific challenges or advantages you’ve encountered?
Digital communication has fundamentally altered the way we convey messages. Specifically, I have transitioned away from traditional methods like email, Slack, and text, opting instead for video communication platforms like Loom. This shift has addressed several challenges inherent in written communication. For instance, I’ve found that conveying tone and intention is much clearer through video, as recipients can hear my voice and see my facial expressions. Additionally, I can efficiently convey information by pointing to visuals and emphasizing key points, which may be lost in written correspondence.
Without visual or auditory cues, recipients may misinterpret the tone or intent of written messages, leading to assumptions and misunderstandings. Moreover, written communication often contains excessive information, overwhelming the reader and hindering effective communication.
Leveraging video communication offers distinct advantages. It allows for clarification and verification of information, as recipients can replay the video as needed. Furthermore, advancements in technology enable videos to be transcribed, timestamped, and organized into agendas, streamlining communication and enhancing collaboration.
Public speaking is a common fear. What techniques or strategies do you recommend to manage and overcome stage fright?
In the past, I had a lot of fear around public speaking. I tried different things like speaking circles and even hired a coach. The main lesson I learned is that practice is key. Whether you’re presenting on stage or in a virtual setting, it’s important to get comfortable with being in the spotlight, hearing your voice through a microphone, and seeing yourself on camera. Try to know your content inside out and practice it rigorously for at least 30 days, an hour each day. Record yourself and listen back during everyday activities like cooking or driving. Get your stories, slides, and message down pat.
The more you practice, the better you’ll become. For example, you can join Toastmasters International, a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person.
Also, you need to know your audience inside out — do your research, run surveys, and talk to people in the room. It’s all about tailoring your message to them. And don’t forget to make your speech interactive. People often try to force jokes, but unless humor comes naturally to you, it usually falls flat. Instead, concentrate on getting your audience involved right from the start to create a connection.
Finally, I would like to highlight that when it comes to fear, don’t try to push it away. Embrace it. It’s a sign that you care about making an impact. Welcome it, and use it to fuel your passion for delivering a powerful message.
What additional resources do you recommend for individuals looking to improve communication skills?
I would highly recommend getting into public speaking. For example, you could start practice by joining Speaking Circles Global Network which offers an approach to public speaking training and communication.
I would also like to recommend an amazing book “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, and Ron Mcmillan. It’s an extraordinary guide that talks about how to have fist-pounding conversations in real time as quickly as possible.
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. 🙂
The movement I am passionate about starting involves empowering employees to recognize their value, speak up, and express their truth. Over my 30 years in business, I have learned that employees are indispensable, whether they are W2, 1099, or independent contractors. I strongly believe that fostering respect and giving everyone a voice is crucial. My passion for this movement extends beyond local borders — I aspire to launch it internationally.
Sometimes, people underestimate the worth of their employees by focusing solely on their salaries and wages. However, regardless of their compensation, many employees work tirelessly while living in constant fear of losing their jobs. This fear often prevents them from speaking up, asking questions, or seeking clarification on certain matters.
And this is not a good practice. If I could start a movement, it would be to empower every employee, independent contractor, and overseer to understand that their voice matters. All employees should feel comfortable knowing they are valued and not just fortunate to have a job.
They should not fear retribution for expressing healthy perspectives and seeking clarification. These things are what lead to advancement, titles, positions, bonuses, and personal and professional satisfaction. Encouraging their input is crucial because the health and success of a business rely on our people.
How can our readers further follow you online?
You can check out my website, my LinkedIn, or my Instagram. Also you can buy my new Amazon’s top #1 Best Seller book: ‘Fix My Boss: The Simple Plan to Cultivate Respect, Risk Courageous Conversations, and Increase the Bottom Line’ on Amazon website.
Also, you can buy my new book ‘Fix My Boss: The Simple Plan to Cultivate Respect, Risk Courageous Conversations, and Increase the Bottom Line’ on the Amazon website.
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: Author Molly McGrath On 5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.