The summer of Kamala Harris: Communication lessons for women everywhere

As we navigate the political landscape of 2024, you could definitely argue this summer belongs to Kamala Harris. 

That’s why I was so interested when an invitation to join a webinar called, “She’s Talking, We’re Listening: Unpacking Kamala Harris’s Communication Effectiveness,” dropped into my inbox.

In this Zoom event, Shari Graydon of Informed Opinions looked closely at Kamala Harris, not as a politician, but as a communicator.

Shari gave several examples of how Kamala Harris’s communication style is not only captivating but also instructive, offering valuable lessons for women striving to make their voices heard in any arena.

Keep calm and communicate on

Kamala Harris’s background as a prosecutor has honed her ability to remain calm and composed under intense pressure. Her public interrogations of figures like Jeff Sessions and Brett Kavanaugh are masterclasses in maintaining composure while delivering pointed, effective questioning. This ability to stay cool in high-stakes situations is a crucial skill for any woman facing challenges in her professional life.

Takeaway: Practice staying present and composed in stressful situations. Your calm demeanor not only helps you think more clearly but also commands respect from those around you.

Listen like a leader

Harris’s listening skills are evident in her interactions. She listens not just to respond, but to understand, which allows her to ask the right questions and pivot the conversation when needed. This deep listening creates a space where she can be fully present and responsive, making her communication both effective and respectful.

Takeaway: Develop your listening skills. By genuinely listening, you can tailor your responses more effectively and build stronger connections with your audience.

Be authentically you

Harris is unapologetically herself, whether she’s letting loose with her full-bodied, contagious laugh or putting her hand on her heart to signal sincerity. Her authenticity shines through, making her relatable and trustworthy. Her laugh, despite criticism by her opponents, is a powerful tool that humanizes her and fosters connection.

Takeaway: Embrace your authentic self, including your quirks and unique expressions. Authenticity fosters connection and makes your communication more impactful.

Storytelling that sticks

One of Harris’s most powerful tools is her ability to tell stories that resonate. She often shares personal anecdotes that not only illustrate her points but also make her more relatable to her audience (coconut tree, anybody?). Her stories about her mother and her experiences as a child of immigrants ground her in a broader narrative of progress and social justice, which resonates deeply with many.

Takeaway: Use storytelling to connect with your audience on an emotional level. Stories are memorable and can convey complex ideas in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Body language that speaks volumes

Harris’s body language is another key aspect of her communication style. Whether she’s leaning in during a conversation, exposing her neck in a gesture of vulnerability, or using open hand gestures, her body language exudes confidence and openness. These non-verbal cues reinforce her spoken words, making her message even more powerful.

Takeaway: Be mindful of your body language. Open, confident gestures and posture can significantly enhance the impact of your spoken words.

KISS (keep it short, silly)

In an era where long speeches can lose audiences, Harris’s ability to be concise is refreshing. Her speeches are impactful because they are to the point, leaving her audience wanting more rather than feeling overwhelmed.

Takeaway: Practice brevity in your communication. Knowing when to stop talking can be just as powerful as knowing what to say.

Learning from a (self-described) joyful warrior

Kamala Harris’s communication style offers a wealth of lessons for women at any stage of their career. From staying calm under pressure to embracing authenticity and mastering the art of storytelling, Harris’s approach is a demonstration of effective communication. As we witness her influence grow, there’s much we can learn from this joyful warrior to enhance our own professional journeys.

by Tudor Robins

Tudor is a journalism grad who has published articles in a range of national newspapers and magazines. She also helps clients bring technical and marketing writing to life with her relatable, creative writing skills. When not writing, you can find Tudor running, horseback riding, or hiking.

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