In this episode I talk to Michelle Gladieux President of Gladieux Consulting about courageous communication for leaders and how leaders can overcome barriers like hiding rationalizing or settling to build trust give better feedback and lead with impact especially in technical professions like engineering and construction.
Engineering Quotes:



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Why Courageous Communication for Leaders Is Essential in AEC Teams:


Courageous communication for leaders means stepping outside the usual comfort zone to speak up listen better or try new behaviors in unfamiliar situations Leaders who approach communication like a process can make steady progress by experimenting with small intentional actions. This is especially true in engineering leadership where habits and structure often dominate communication styles.
Effective feedback starts with humility and clear intent using simple preambles to lower defensiveness and build trust. Tools like the feedback challenge help teams share praise and constructive input in a way that encourages honest respectful communication especially useful in project management communication settings.
Emotional intelligence in leadership helps leaders recognize when something feels off and gives them the tools to ask thoughtful questions that open dialogue. By naming emotions and creating space for honest conversations leaders build stronger connections and healthier work dynamics. These soft skills are critical for communication skills for engineers
Understanding personality traits and communication preferences through a reliable assessment helps leaders recognize both strengths and blind spots. Being open about growth goals invites others to notice and support positive change. An important reminder for those in AEC leadership roles who manage diverse and often remote teams
Leaders who commit to visible growth and invite regular feedback create space for others to improve alongside them. Small actions done with skill and sincerity set the tone for more open respectful communication across the team. Communication skills for managers matter at all levels but are essential for technical professionals transitioning into leadership roles

More in This Episode…
About Michelle Gladieux
Michelle is an executive coach, instructional designer, teacher, and speaker deeply committed to helping people overcome obstacles and fears as communicators. She earned her M.S. in industrial technology with an emphasis in organizational psychology at Purdue University and has designed and presented over one thousand original seminars. Michelle taught graduate and undergraduate business courses at three universities for 18 years in her home state of Indiana. She and her team of 6 coach in corporate, nonprofit, academic, government, and military settings. Her book, Communicate with Courage, distributed worldwide by Penguin Random House, earned eleven literary awards in its first year of publication. Michelle’s nickname since 6th grade is “Glad,” and she strives daily to live up to it with a grateful heart.
Books Mentioned in This Episode
Communicate with Courage


Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include:
Gladieux Consulting
122nd Fighter Wing, US Air Force
Allen County Jail / Sheriff’s Office
Connect with Michelle Gladieuxon LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking

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