In a workplace—and world—saturated with information, the ability to cut through the noise and deliver a clear, compelling message is invaluable. That’s why “data storytelling” isn't a fad; it's an essential communication skill. It's how we need to transform dry numbers and complex data into actionable insights and turn passive audiences into engaged stakeholders.

Meetings have a reputation. From long-winded discussions to unproductive brainstorming sessions, they often feel like a waste of time. But the truth is, meetings are essential to any organization. They can be a forum to foster collaboration, drive decisions, and keep teams aligned. The challenge lies in making them effective, engaging, and productive. 

Have you ever heard the expression “Clear is kind, unclear is unkind?”

That simple yet transformative concept is something Brené Brown talks about extensively in her book, “Dare to Lead.”

Picture a woman entering a meeting room, standing tall, walking with confidence and composure, and greeting the other attendees with a warm, engaging smile.

Picture this: You're part of a project team trying to come up with a solution to a critical challenge. Without a facilitator, the conversation jumps from topic to topic. Some voices are louder than others, and the team leaves without any clear consensus or actionable takeaways.

In the nearly 40 years since PowerPoint was released, there have been countless books, webinars, and workshops on how to use it (and other similar tools) to create eye-catching, effective presentations.

Decades ago, I worked with an incredibly articulate executive who was always cool and composed when he presented. He had a tendency, however, to click his heels periodically while talking. 

In her book, “Sum It Up: A Thousand and Ninety-Eight Victories, a Couple of Irrelevant Losses, and a Life in Perspective,” legendary women’s basketball coach Pat Summitt said, 

“A great coach can lead you to places
you never thought you could reach.”

Clear, strategic, authentic communication in the workplace is more important than ever, and it’s at the heart of what will help you succeed when interviewing for your next job.

According to a 2023 Axios research report, the cost of ineffective communication (from leaders and across the organization) adds up to more than $15,000 per employee, per year—or $2 trillion annually across the U.S. alone.

The report goes on to highlight the cost of poor communication in human terms: