The role language plays in leadership is reflected in Conger's (1991) article about inspiring others through the language of leadership. Leaders are meant to articulate their organization's mission and communicate it in inspiring ways.

The language of leadership outlined in the article to the right provides two skill categories:

1. Framing: This involves taking snapshots of the purpose of the organization. Leaders interpret reality to their followers, as well as ensuring the purpose of the organization has an emotional impact and builds confidence and excitement for the future. Framing involves two essential components:

a. Values - These should have strong appeal, justifies actions in acceptable ways, and provides a powerful reason of being.

b. Beliefs - These are ideas that are factored in to support or impede actions to achieve desired results. There are 4 belief categories:

i. The mission's importance

ii. The need for the mission

iii. Antagonists of the mission

iv. Efficacy of the mission

2. Rhetorical Techniques: Otherwise known as the skill of language, leaders utilize several abilities in using language to effectively convey the mission to their followers. These include:

a. Using metaphors, analogies, organizational stories

b. Gearing language to different audiences

c. Speech techniques (repetition and rhythm, alliteration, paralanguage)

For additional details, go ahead and read the article yourself and learn how you can inspire others by using the language of leadership!