October 2024

The 3 Cs of Communication

By Jim Nalepa

The cornerstone of leadership is the ability to communicate. And communicate we MUST!

As leaders, we have only two primary tools to guide and direct our teams—our words and our actions. For us to be effective and produce results, both must be aligned perfectly. The phrase "Lead by Example" captures the essence of leading through actions, showing team members the standard of excellence not just by directing but by doing. Yet, equally critical is our ability to harness the power of words. Being an effective communicator is not just an asset but a necessity for successful leadership.

Successful leaders employ the concept of the “3 Cs”—Clear, Concise, and Confirmed.

Clear

To be effective, communication must be clear. Clarity ensures that the message is easily understood and actionable, driving the desired results. Consider these steps to achieve clarity:

Clear communication is the foundation, but it is only the beginning.

Concise

The ability to be concise—delivering a message briefly yet comprehensively—is a powerful skill. Here’s why conciseness matters:

Being concise does not mean leaving out necessary details but rather focusing on what truly matters and conveying it effectively.

Confirmed

The final and perhaps the most critical aspect of effective communication is ensuring it is confirmed. This means verifying that the message was understood as intended. Here’s how to achieve confirmation:

The gap between how we perceive our communication skills and how effective they actually are often leads to misalignment. Many leaders assume they are good communicators without taking steps to verify that their message was understood. By actively confirming communication, leaders bridge this gap between assumption and reality, significantly improving team effectiveness and reducing misunderstandings.

Effective communication is a practiced skill that requires clarity, conciseness, and confirmation. By mastering these three Cs, leaders can ensure that their messages are not only heard but understood and acted upon correctly. This disciplined approach to communication fosters better relationships, clearer directions, and, ultimately, superior results. Remember, the difference between knowing and doing in leadership communication can define the success of a leader. Commit to practicing the three Cs in all interactions, and watch your leadership effectiveness grow.

Jim Nalepa graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1978. He served six years on active duty including three years with the famed 82nd Airborne Division. He is a combat veteran of The Grenada Rescue Mission in 1983. Jim's passion for the subject of leadership and energetic delivery has been the hallmark of his success. He is also the co-author of the Amazon Best Seller, Follow Me Leadership.