Ever left a meeting thinking "I really didn't get my point across" or noticed people's eyes glazing over when you speak? You're not alone. The ability to communicate succinctly is one of the most underrated leadership skills - and one of the biggest barriers to career progression we see with our clients. In this episode, we explore why unclear communication holds leaders back more than technical skills gaps, and share practical frameworks to help you be heard.

Key points from this episode

• Why succinct communication becomes critical as you progress to senior roles
• How introvert vs extrovert preferences impact your communication style
• The PREP method for structuring your thoughts (Point, Reason, Example, Point)
• Why British workplace culture makes directness challenging - and how to navigate it
• The BLUF framework (Bottom Line Up Front) for emails and presentations

00:00 Introduction: Why succinct communication matters for career progression

01:00 How unclear communication holds leaders back more than technical skills

03:00 The confidence spiral: When communication struggles affect your self-belief

05:00 Introvert communication challenges: Why thinking aloud doesn't come naturally

08:00 The PREP method: A framework for clear, structured communication

11:00 Extrovert challenges: When processing aloud comes across as self-focused

13:00 The Listen First rule: Creating pause before contributing

14:00 The British directness dilemma: Balancing politeness with clarity

17:00 Radical Candor in communication: Being direct while showing care

21:00 The BLUF framework: Bottom Line Up Front for immediate impact

23:00 Wrap-up: How coaching can help develop your authentic communication style

Useful Links

Join The Catalyst Career Club for 50k+ Leaders

Connect with Pam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelalangan/

Connect with Jacqui on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-jagger/

Follow the Catalyst Careers LinkedIn page for career tips and advice

Interested in working with us?

Get in touch about career or leadership development, outplacement workshops or recruitment support via the Catalyst Careers website

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