Power Cues
The Subtle Science of Leading Groups, Persuading Others, and Maximizing Your Personal Impact
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- $43.99
Publisher Description
Take control of your communications—before someone else does
What if someone told you that your behavior was controlled by a powerful, invisible force? Most of us would be skeptical of such a claim—but it’s largely true. Our brains are constantly transmitting and receiving signals of which we are unaware. Studies show that these constant inputs drive the great majority of our decisions about what to do next—and we become conscious of the decisions only after we start acting on them. Many may find that disturbing. But the implications for leadership are profound.
In this provocative yet practical book, renowned speaking coach and communication expert Nick Morgan highlights recent research that shows how humans are programmed to respond to the nonverbal cues of others—subtle gestures, sounds, and signals—that elicit emotion. He then provides a clear, useful framework of seven “power cues” that will be essential for any leader in business, the public sector, or almost any context. You’ll learn crucial skills, from measuring nonverbal signs of confidence, to the art and practice of gestures and vocal tones, to figuring out what your gut is really telling you.
This concise and engaging guide will help leaders and aspiring leaders of all stripes to connect powerfully, communicate more effectively, and command influence.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In this practical and useful guide, Morgan (Give Your Speech, Change the World) gives a blueprint for effective leadership, primarily by teaching how to read the conscious and unconscious signs others give. The conscious signs are illustrated using seven key "power cues" the way you enter a room; the emotions conveyed through body language at important moments; the unconscious messages one gleans from others; possession of "a leadership voice"; the honest signals sent out in key situations; whether your unconscious mind is holding you back; and the impact your stories have. Equally important are Morgan's lessons on intuition, which he believes is chiefly a person's unconscious "trying hard to get in touch." "When humans have a strong emotion and try to conceal it," he posits, "it's liable to leak out in very quick facial expressions that are contrary to the predominant facial expression the person is maintaining." He also maps overt body language and teaches readers "how to spot the person in power," differentiate friend from foe, distinguish lies from truths, and determine if a person is listening. Morgan rounds out his book with tips on improving public speaking, finding an authoritative voice, and using body language for success.
