I have stated before that communication is the currency of leadership. Presence and voice are your primary assets. This article is the first in a series on leadership presence and voice. We will begin with a simple phrase that you can practice daily--"Tell me more."

"Tell me more" is one of the simplest yet most powerful phrases a leader can use in conversation. It communicates presence, curiosity, and respect—all essential qualities for building trust and unlocking deeper insight. Here's why it matters in leadership contexts:

Invites Depth Rather Than Surface

Many conversations hover at a transactional level. By saying "Tell me more," a leader signals they're not satisfied with the first layer of information and genuinely want to understand the other person's perspective, motivations, or emotions. By simply saying "Tell me more," you open the door to richer insights.

Builds Trust and Psychological Safety

When a leader resists the urge to jump in with solutions or judgments and instead leans in with curiosity, it reassures the other person that their thoughts are valued. Over time, this fosters psychological safety—people feel freer to share honestly, even about complex issues.

Demonstrates Active Listening

Rather than formulating a response while the other person is speaking, "Tell me more" places the focus squarely back on the speaker. It reinforces that the leader is listening for understanding, not simply for the chance to reply.

Unlocks Hidden Insights

Often, what people share first is just the headline. The real motivations, concerns, or innovative ideas come out only after a second or third layer of conversation. "Tell me more" is the nudge that reveals what might otherwise stay hidden.

Empowers Others’ Voice

Leadership isn't just about direction—it's about drawing out the contributions of others. This simple phrase gives people the floor, communicates that their input matters, and encourages ownership in decision-making.

Keeps Leaders from Rushing to Fix

Leaders often default to solving problems quickly. But "Tell me more" interrupts that reflex and creates space to better understand the situation before acting. It helps leaders lead with empathy instead of assumptions.

"Tell me more" is a posture more than a phrase. It represents humility, curiosity, and presence. Try it out in your next leadership conversation.

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The Power of “Tell Me More”