Communications Styles

OK, Coach Bob Huggins of WVU's Final Four team has proven himself one of college's best coaches. We can also learn something from Huggs about communicating. You know the third main step in any good public relations plan, where you take your messages and apply them, usually by communicating in some manner.

When Connecticut humbled the Mountaineers in late February, the basketball team could have folded after their latest stumble. But after the game, Huggs huddled with his team and in a low voice, and with some passion, the coach refocused his team on a goal of winning for themselves and this small, rural state we all love so much.

Without Powerpoint slides, video or raising his voice, Huggins did what all good leaders can do. Get others to follow them and become part of something bigger. We do not need formal measurement to see the results of a good speech. The whole nation sees it with us-- the first Final Four appearance since 1959, and a team that to a man tells the media that they are playing for us. For all of us.

Contrast his style to other leaders, such as pols who shout, wave their hands and raise their voices. Sometimes, however, a whisper will do wonders.