By Jeff Black

Most leaders think they’ll communicate better when the pressure is on. But pressure doesn’t give you superpowers.

In fact, whatever communication habits you’ve built — good, bad or ugly — will be under the spotlight.

When the timeline shrinks and the stakes are high, and someone asks for a decision RIGHT NOW, you don’t suddenly transform into your “best self.” You default to your practiced self.

Pressure Is a Truth Serum

If you really want to know what kind of leader you are, examine your reaction when a client changes direction, or when your team is overwhelmed, or when someone challenges you and you didn’t see it coming.

Ask yourself:

• Do I get clearer or more chaotic?
• Do I slow down (my talk, my walk, my words) or speed up?
• Do I lead with presence or panic?

When Do You Practice? Before You Need To!

The leaders who communicate well under pressure aren’t lucky, they’re just more prepared.

If you want to get better without waiting for a crisis, try the following:

• Record yourself delivering a message with a time limit.
• Ask someone to interrupt you and see how you recover.
• Run quick “pressure drills” with your team that involve fast pivots, tough questions, real scenarios.
• Get familiar with being uncomfortable, so the discomfort doesn’t own you.

If you want to know what kind of leader you really are, watch yourself when the clock is ticking.

If you want to become the leader you want to be, practice before the stakes get high.

Ready to guide your organization to greener pastures?

Contact Black Sheep Global Consulting today to discover how our expert leadership development training can help your team thrive and stand out in today’s competitive market.