Speaking to People’s Potential: Why Great Leaders Do It
One of the greatest compliments I’ve ever received was being told that I “speak to people’s potential.” It struck a chord because, as leaders, recognizing and speaking to the potential of those we lead isn’t just a skill—it’s an art, a responsibility, and a game-changer in cultivating exceptional teams.
What Does It Mean to Speak to Someone’s Potential?
Speaking to someone’s potential means seeing beyond who they are today and recognizing the possibilities of who they can become. It’s not about ignoring present realities but understanding that everyone carries unique talents, strengths, and untapped abilities waiting to flourish. When we speak to potential, we choose to believe in people—not just for what they’ve done, but for everything they have yet to achieve.
This is more than encouragement; it’s about affirming someone’s value and capability in a way that ignites self-belief. Leaders hold a unique position in being able to cultivate this belief in others.
Why It Matters for Leaders
- Unlocking Growth: The best leaders know that growth often starts with belief—both self-belief and the belief of others. When leaders highlight potential, it gives individuals the confidence to take risks, embrace new opportunities, and stretch their abilities.
- Building Resilience: Every professional faces moments of doubt or imposter syndrome. By speaking to their potential, leaders provide a lifeline of encouragement. It reminds people of their strength and ability to navigate challenges, even in tough times.
- Fostering Engagement: People perform at their best when they feel seen, valued, and believed in. Recognizing potential demonstrates genuine care and investment in a person’s journey, building trust and deeper engagement within teams.
- Driving Team Excellence: A team’s potential grows when its members feel empowered to explore their individual strengths. Leaders who focus on potential help create a culture of possibility, innovation, and excellence—because when people feel like they can thrive, they lift the whole group with them.
- Leaving a Legacy: Leadership isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s about building people. Speaking to someone’s potential creates lasting ripple effects—both in that person’s career and in the organization as a whole. It’s how great leaders leave a mark that transcends their tenure.
How to Speak to Potential
For leaders, speaking to potential requires intentionality and emotional intelligence. Here are a few ways to cultivate this practice:
- Notice the Signs: Pay attention to people’s natural strengths and passions. What are they good at? What excites them? Recognize these qualities and call them out.
- Frame Feedback Positively: Even constructive feedback can speak to potential when framed as an opportunity to grow into their best selves, rather than a criticism of where they currently are.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledging progress, no matter how incremental, reinforces belief in someone’s capability.
- Set Stretch Goals: Show that you trust their ability to handle bigger challenges by giving them opportunities to grow into roles they may not think they’re ready for yet.
- Encourage Reflection: Sometimes, people struggle to see their own strengths. Help them reflect on their achievements and the potential you see in them.
The Ripple Effect of Belief
As leaders, our words carry weight. When we take the time to speak to someone’s potential, we plant seeds of belief that can transform lives and careers. The ripple effect is undeniable, encouraging one person to rise to their potential has a way of inspiring others to do the same.
So, if you’ve ever been told that you “speak to people’s potential,” wear it like a badge of honour. It means you’ve tapped into a leadership superpower—one that has the power to shape not just individuals, but entire teams and organizations. Because at the end of the day, great leaders don’t just see people for who they are; they see them for who they can become—and they help them get there.
If you would like to develop authentic leadership skills and really build up people around you please reach out to me at elizabethdenniss@bigpond.com or on 0456728961. I provide in person and online leadership coaching and development sessions. I also offer leadership development through Equine Informed Awareness at Rainbow Ridge Farm.