COMMUNICATIONS AND LEADERSHIP: NOT ONLY ENTWINED, BUT INSEPARABLE

Abstract

AbstractThe author, the chief corporate affairs officer at the multinational pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, writes about the strong connection between leadership and communication. She notes that companies must be clear about their policies, and how those policies are communicated to the general public, while taking into account “fast‐moving public opinion.” She discusses examples from accomplished executives and how they handled sensitive communications on behalf of their company and its stakeholders: current Pfizer chairman and CEO Albert Bourla, and retired American Express CEO Ken Chenault. Their work points to the author's contention that “communications can no longer be considered a soft skill. The ability to lead and drive the public conversation is a rock‐hard competency.” She lists ten leadership and communications tenets that I have refined and practiced over decades working in the field: 1. Channel Your Intention; 2. Muster the Courage for Candor; 3. Stay Curious, Be Creative; 4. The Strength of Being Gracious and Kind; 5. Take Time to Pause and Prepare; 6. Perfect Your Pitch; 7. Disarm with Humility; Empower with Truth; 8. Delight with Humor; 9. Reflect with Honor; 10. Seek Harmony. The author contends that “Now that I'm leading the team, teaching moments are my greatest pleasure.”