How to improve leadership in teams through effective internal communication

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.

comunicación interna en tiempos de crisis

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:

mejorar el liderazgo en equipos

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.
la escucha activa para ser un gran líder

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.

Los desafíos del liderazgo generacional

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.

mejorar el liderazgo en equipos

In this scenario, internal communication becomes an essential bridge to connect, motivate, and lead aligned and committed teams.

At Oxean, we help organizations design internal communication strategies that empower their leaders and strengthen their cultures. Because when people feel heard, valued, and informed, results multiply. If you think your communication skills need an update,
let’s talk now.

Frequently asked questions

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.

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.

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.

One of the most frequent mistakes is not listening. Another is communicating only during crises. Avoiding them involves maintaining open, consistent, and empathetic communication.

 

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.

 

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.

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.

By clearly communicating the “why” behind each action. When the team understands how their work contributes to a greater purpose, commitment and motivation increase.