In recent years, meteorological departments across the world have shifted toward impact-based weather forecasting. Rather than simply predicting a storm or heavy rainfall, they now focus on what these events are likely to cause- road closures, crop damage, power outages. This change has improved preparedness by translating abstract data into tangible consequences.
Interestingly, this isn’t a new strategy. It’s one that many of us grew up experiencing- from our mothers!
The Original Impact Communicators
Our mothers didn’t just tell us what to do- they told us why (and emphatically!)
“Drink your milk so you grow tall.”
“Eat vegetables if you want to stay healthy.”
“Don’t lie, or your tongue will turn black.”
Whether scientific or superstitious, the messaging worked because it focused on outcomes, not just actions. This is the essence of impact-based communication.
As an Executive coach, I often find that leaders and professionals struggle to land their message because they stop at the ‘what’. They communicate what they did, what they want, or what they know- without anchoring it in why it matters.
Apply It at Work: Convey Impact
Here are a few simple but powerful ways to bring impact into workplace conversations:
1. While giving feedback:
“Your presentation felt rushed.”
Try instead:
“Because your presentation felt rushed, some key points got lost and the team had follow-up questions that delayed the decision.”
2. While offering appreciation:
“Thanks, great job.”
Refine it to:
“Thanks for simplifying a complex topic. It helped the team make a quicker, more informed decision.”
3. In performance reviews or interview preparation:
“I managed a challenging client relationship.”
Strengthen it with impact:
“By actively listening to the client’s concerns, I retained the account and renewed a six-month contract.”
As a senior level interview coach, I consistently advise candidates to shift from listing responsibilities to spotlighting results. It’s not enough to say what you did- show what changed because you did it.
Why This Matters for Leaders
Language that centers on impact helps people connect actions to outcomes. It builds clarity, trust, and credibility- whether you’re leading teams, delivering feedback, or influencing stakeholders. As an Executive coach, I find this especially critical for those in senior leadership roles where strategic communication is a core part of success.
Final Thought
Whether you’re writing an email, giving feedback, preparing for a board presentation, or answering interview questions- ask yourself:
What changed because of this?
That’s the story your listener wants to hear.
And that’s how your message lands with real impact.
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