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What makes a communication leader: five steps to generate impact

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    Since launching the #WeLeadComms initiative, one of my aims has been to promote the idea that “communication leadership” is not some lofty, hierarchy-based aspiration.  It’s actually something any communication pro can practice on a day-to-day, moment-by-moment basis. By “communication leader,” I don’t mean “Chief Communication Officer” or some other official title.   Instead, I mean communication leadership as: the application of…

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    About The Author

    Mike Klein
    Mike Klein is Principal at Changing The Terms, a strategic communication consultancy based in Reykjavik, Iceland, and is a Senior Advisor with Smarp’s Strategic Services business. Mike holds an MBA from London Business School and is the former Regional Chair of the International Association of Business Communicators for Europe – Middle East – North Africa. Mike has worked on change communication and internal communication with a number of large, international companies including Cargill, Shell, easyJet, Barclays, VEON and Avery Dennison and is the author of From Lincoln to LinkedIn, the 55 Minute Guide to Social Communication.
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    Tuesday 18 February
    7:00 PM AEDT | 9:00 AM CET | 8:00 AM GMT

    Hiring processes are still sidelining some of the most capable communication professionals — often for vague, unhelpful reasons like “too senior,” “too broad,” or “not quite the right fit.” Beneath those labels sit deeper issues: discomfort with experience, misunderstanding of judgement-based roles and a growing but rarely acknowledged problem of ageism.

    This webinar looks ahead to hiring in 2026 and asks some necessary questions about how communication capability is assessed, why experienced professionals are so often overlooked, and what needs to change if organisations genuinely want stronger leadership, trust and influence.

    Hiring in 2026

    What Needs to Change for Leaders and Candidates

    Free for CSCE Members!

    Non-CSCE Members (early bird available until 11:55pm AEDT 4 February 2026)

    Mastering Media Interviews: Essential Skills for Effective Spokespeople - Virtual Course

    28 March, 9:00 AM AEDT

    In this exclusive two-hour workshop, world-renowned media trainer Jo Detavernier SCMP, APR, will provide media spokespeople with the essential tools to handle interviews with skill and confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a TV appearance, a podcast interview, or an in-depth print feature, Jo will guide you through proven techniques to communicate clearly and steer conversations toward your objectives. Tailored to help you deliver compelling messages across various media channels, this session ensures you’re well-prepared for any interview scenario.

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