Talk Like A Top Performer

Words shape outcomes.

The difference between good and great leaders
often comes down to how they communicate.

How they choose their words.
How conscious they are of those words’ impact.

Here’s your playbook for talking like a top performer
in 12 critical moments:

🎯 When Priorities Change

↳ Instead of “We’re changing direction”
↳ Say “We’re making a shift to stay focused on what
matters most”

💪 When Facing Challenges

↳ Instead of “It shouldn’t be this hard”
↳ Say “This is tough, but we’ll figure it out together”

🤝 When Rebuilding Trust

↳ Instead of “Sorry you’re upset”
↳ Say “I value our trust. Let’s talk about how to
move forward”

⚡ When Motivating The Team

↳ Instead of “We need to work harder”
↳ Say “We can do this. Here’s how today’s work
directly impacts our goals”

🔄 When Proposing a Change

↳ Instead of “This is what we’re doing now”
↳ Say “This shift will help us reach our goals faster”

🚀 When Encouraging Initiative

↳ Instead of “You need to take ownership”
↳ Say “What approach would you take to lead
this effort”

📈 When Strengthening Team Accountability

↳ Instead of “This is on you”
↳ Say “Your role is essential to driving this result”

🗣️ When Clarifying Communication

↳ Instead of “That’s not what I said”
↳ Say “Let me rephrase to ensure we’re aligned”

❓When Responding to Questions

↳ Instead of “I’m not answering that”
↳ Say “Great question. I don’t have an answer now,
but I’ll confirm and follow up”

🎯When Setting Expectations

↳ Instead of “Just get it done”
↳ Say “Here’s the outcome we’re aiming for and
why it’s important”

🌟 When Acknowledging Contributions

↳ Instead of “Good job”
↳ Say “Your effort made a big difference
on this task. Thank you”

💫 When Offering Encouragement

↳ Instead of “Keep trying”
↳ Say “I see the progress you’re making. Keep going,
it’s paying off”

Leading like a top performer starts with
speaking like one.

Choose words that lift people up.
That show you care.
That demonstrate true leadership.

Try just one of these shifts today.

Watch what happens.

You might be surprised at the impact.