How to Communicate
At Oakridge Leaders, we believe that effective communication is the key to leadership and influence—whether you're speaking to a crowd, writing for an audience, or engaging online. In this section, you'll discover expert tips on Public Speaking, Writing Content, crafting impactful Speeches, and using Social Media and Video to connect with your audience. Led by communication strategist Ryan Abramson, Oakridge Leaders offers practical insights to help you speak with confidence, write with purpose, and create content that inspires action. Whether you're preparing a big presentation or launching a new social campaign, these tools will help you sharpen your voice and elevate your message.
"Your voice on social media should sound like you—real, relatable, and ready to connect." – Ryan Abramson
👋 Let’s Talk About Communication
Whether you're giving a big speech, writing a blog post, making a video, or just sharing a story on Instagram—how you say something is just as important as what you say. Good communication builds trust, inspires action, and creates connection.
Here’s a simple, human guide to getting it right across different platforms.
🎤 Speaking: Talk So People Listen
We’ve all sat through boring presentations. Don’t be that person. Here’s how to make your words count:
🧠 Think Before You Speak
Pause and gather your thoughts before you dive in. It helps you stay clear and avoid awkward “ums” and filler words.
✂️ Keep It Simple
No need for fancy words. Say what you mean in a way anyone can understand.
💪 Speak with Confidence
Believe in what you’re saying. Use a steady voice, look people in the eye, and stand tall. Confidence is contagious.
🎭 Use Your Voice
Don’t be a robot. Change your tone, add emotion, and keep your energy up to keep people engaged.
👂 Be a Great Listener
Communication isn’t just about talking. Listen fully, nod, respond. People love to feel heard.
🤝 Watch Body Language
Your face and hands tell their own story. Make sure your gestures match your words.
✍️ Writing: Make Your Words Work
Want people to read your stuff? Keep it clean, simple, and straight to the point.
👥 Know Who You’re Writing For
Speak their language. Writing for parents? Use a different tone than if you're writing for young professionals.
✏️ Be Clear & Concise
Short sentences. Simple words. Say more by saying less.
🗂️ Organize It
Use bullets, headings, and short paragraphs. Nobody wants a wall of text.
💥 Use Active Voice
It’s stronger to say “We launched the program” than “The program was launched.”
✅ Proofread
Double-check for typos, grammar mistakes, and awkward phrases. It makes a big difference.
🔁 The 5 Cs of Great Writing
Be Clear, Concise, Complete, Concrete, and Cohesive.
📱 Social Media: Keep It Real
Social media is where connection meets creativity. Don’t just post—start conversations.
🧑🤝🧑 Know Your Audience
Understand what your followers like, where they hang out, and what they care about.
❤️ Be Real
Don’t be afraid to show your human side. People relate to authenticity more than perfection.
📸 Use Eye-Catching Content
Strong headlines, good photos, and fun visuals get more clicks.
📖 Tell Stories
People love stories—share wins, behind-the-scenes moments, or challenges you’ve overcome.
💬 Engage
Reply to comments and messages. Interaction builds loyalty.
🧩 Stay Consistent
Keep your brand voice and style the same across platforms.
🌐 Web Content: Be User-Friendly
Your website is often the first impression. Make it easy to read, navigate, and enjoy.
✍️ Get to the Point
People skim online. Say the important stuff first.
🧱 Structure Matters
Use short paragraphs, subheadings, and bullet points. Break things up.
🖼️ Use Visuals
Icons, images, and videos help tell your story quickly.
♿ Be Accessible
Design with everyone in mind. Use alt text, easy-to-read fonts, and good contrast.
🎯 Stay Relevant
Give your readers info they care about—and make it easy to find.
🎥 Video: Grab Attention Fast
Video is powerful—but only if you get it right.
⏱️ Hook 'Em Fast
You’ve got 3 seconds. Start strong.
📖 Tell a Story
Give your video a beginning, middle, and end—even if it’s only 30 seconds long.
📹 Look & Sound Good
No shaky cams or scratchy audio. Use good lighting and a mic if you can.
📝 Add Captions
Most people watch with the sound off. Captions keep them engaged.
🧭 Include a CTA
Tell viewers what to do next—click, sign up, follow, or visit your site.
🧼 Keep It Clean
Short and sweet wins the race.