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Copyright 2001 ã weLEAD, Inc.
Power
Talk
Using Language to Build Authority and
Influence
Warner Business Books, New York, 2001 (211
pages in hardback)
Author
Sarah Myers McGinty, Ph.D.
ISBN 0446678120
Leadership is
about language and communication. Sarah McGinty is an
expert in the field of linguistics and her book offers us the opportunity to
improve our patterns of speech to become a linguistic leader. She breaks down
speech patterns into two basic modes of communication. These modes are referred
to as “Language from the Center” and “Language from the Edge”. The first of
these conveys the pattern that is typically associated with leadership
including knowledge, trust and authority. The later mode conveys responsiveness
and collaboration.
“Language
from the Center” is authoritative and tends to direct the flow of conversation.
It makes statements, argues, and leads the listeners to where the speaker wants
them to go. It also conveys competence, knowledge and a feeling of trust in the
speaker by the nature of the confidence expressed. This mode also tends to use
facts and strong analogies to make a point and demonstrate their expertise.
“Language
from the Edge” is responsive rather than directive. It tends to ask questions,
avoid argumentation and explore others’ opinions. It explores, brings others
into the conversation and seeks to gather information, to learn and listen
instead of direct. In this mode objections may come in the form of a question
rather than a bold statement. Some careers require this mode of communication
including teachers, therapists, and counselors. In these professions
communication is first gathered and secondarily is expressed with expertise
when their opinion is needed.
The purpose
of Power Talk goes far beyond the definition of these speech patterns. McGinty clearly shows how one can combine both modes into
an effective unified communication style. By cross-training these linguistic
modes a speaker is now able to immediately draw the positive aspects of both.
The author believes that different situations require different communication
styles and adapting the right language for the given situation will lead to
greater success. The result is a linguistic toolbox referred to as power talk. However, this is
not an easy task. It requires the speaker to examine himself
or herself internally and discover how we sound to others. One must become
aware of their own speech patterns and the speech patterns of others. Then by practice, sampling and observation
the speaker can increase the effectiveness of their communication. McGinty explains how this process can work and she
maintains that power talk can improve communication skills leading to greater influence and
career advancement.
weLEAD rating recommended
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