Improving leadership in teams through effective internal communication is one of the most relevant challenges for modern organizations.
In a constantly evolving business environment, leadership is no longer just about achieving strategic goals, but also about fostering closeness, promoting dialogue, and actively listening to teams.
To achieve this, internal communication becomes a key tool that helps build genuine connections, strengthen the shared purpose, and align expectations effectively.
Leadership is communication
All leadership is exercised through communication. What we say, how we say it, and when we say it shapes perceptions, generates certainty, motivates teams, and defines organizational culture.
The impact of silence or poor communication
However, leaders are not always aware of the impact their communication—or lack thereof—has on business outcomes and workplace climate. A poorly delivered message or a lack of timely response can cause demotivation, misunderstandings, and loss of strategic alignment.
Commitment in focus: the impact of leadership on engagement
According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2025 report,
employee engagement is on the edge of a cliff. Even more concerning is that manager engagement is also declining: their participation dropped from 30% to 27%.
Key data from Gallup 2025 report:
- Manager engagement directly impacts that of their teams.
- Countries with disconnected managers show less committed employees.
- The decline in leadership could jeopardize global workforce productivity.
The role of communication in productivity and workplace climate
SiIf manager engagement continues to decline, it won’t stop at managers, nor at engagement. Global labor productivity is at risk, Gallup warns.
This data reveals an opportunity: leaders who develop internal communication skills not only enhance productivity but also foster healthier, more empathetic, and aligned work environments.
Without proper diagnosis, any improvement strategy is based on assumptions, not real data.
Internal communication as a strategic ally of the leader
Internal communication allows leaders to convey more than just information: it gives them the opportunity to share vision, build trust, and create a sense of belonging. When a leader communicates clearly, consistently, and closely, it helps to:
Benefits of effective internal communication
Well-managed internal communication helps to:
- Reduce uncertainty in times of change or crisis.
- Promote participation, feedback, and open dialogue.
- Recognize achievements and efforts in a timely manner.
- Strengthen the organizational purpose through consistent messaging.
Improve leadership in teams
It’s not just about talking more, but about communicating better. According to a study by The Workforce Institute,
73% of employees say that the support and leadership of their manager directly motivates them to go the extra mile at work.
What do new generations expect from leadership?
In this new landscape, the expectations of younger employees are also redefining organizational culture. Centennials and millennials are not only looking for stability or career growth, but also for human, accessible, and empathetic leaders.
The challenges of generational leadership according to Deloitte
According to Deloitte Global’s 2025 survey on Gen Z and millennials:
- Half (50% of Gen Z and 48% of millennials) want their managers to teach and guide them.
- Only 36% of Gen Z and 32% of millennials say this actually happens.
- They also expect more inspiration, emotional support, and development opportunities.
This gap between expectations and reality is a critical point to address through internal communication and transformational leadership.
How can leaders strengthen their internal communication?
Some practices we recommend at Oxean, as a Global Internal Communication Agency, to support leaders on this path:
Best practices for communicator leaders
Listen before communicating: create spaces for active listening to understand the team’s expectations, concerns, and needs.
Define clear and consistent messages: aligned with organizational strategy and culture.
Use both formal and informal channels: to maintain agile, close, and two-way communication.
Publicly and sincerely recognize individual and collective achievements.
Develop communication skills: through workshops, coaching, or mentoring to strengthen leadership through conversation.
A leadership that communicates well, leads better
Today’s leadership demands close, human leaders who can build strong relationships through words, gestures, and listening.
In this scenario, internal communication becomes an essential bridge to connect, motivate, and lead aligned and committed teams.
Frequently asked questions
How can a leader know if their communication style is negatively affecting the team?
A clear sign is lack of alignment or motivation. If the team doesn’t understand the objectives or avoids giving feedback, communication is likely not being effective.
What signs indicate that leadership in teams needs improvement within an organization?
High turnover, demotivation, or lack of engagement are common signs. Another is when the team relies excessively on the leader to make simple decisions. These are all indicators that it’s time to improve leadership in teams through more effective communication and empowerment.
How can internal communication sustainably improve employee engagement?
By facilitating dialogue, reinforcing purpose, and keeping everyone informed, internal communication creates a trusting environment that boosts long-term engagement. This is essential to improve leadership in teams and build strong, motivated workforces.
What are the most common communication mistakes made by leaders and how can they be avoided?
One of the most frequent mistakes is not listening. Another is communicating only during crises. Avoiding them involves maintaining open, consistent, and empathetic communication.
How can empathetic leadership be adapted to multigenerational teams?
First, it’s important to recognize that each generation has different expectations. Then, it’s key to create listening spaces and tailor messages based on the values and styles of each group.
What tools can leaders use to improve their communication skills?
Workshops, coaching sessions, internal podcasts, and practical guides are highly effective resources. The key is to align them with the organization’s values and challenges.
Why does generational leadership require differentiated communication strategies?
Because what motivates a centennial is not the same as what drives a baby boomer. That’s why, if a leader wants to improve leadership in teams, they must learn to connect with each group in a meaningful way.
How can a leader foster a sense of purpose in their team through communication?
By clearly communicating the “why” behind each action. When the team understands how their work contributes to a greater purpose, commitment and motivation increase.