Work done by Porter, Lorsch and Nohria, reported in the October 2004 Harvard Business Review found that seven surprises await the new CEO and “Surprise Four” is “You Are Always Sending A Message.”

Whether in a small business or a large organization, a leader’s anger may not be voiced particularly loudly, but it is heard like a “lion’s roar.” The leader’s favor may be small, but it is experienced like “fresh dew on the grass.” Everything is magnified. Body language as well as words communicate; in fact, sometimes it is the body that is “speaking” and listened to despite the words spoken.

The solution? Two solutions: 1) words and thoughts must be congruent – therefore, get centered before work; 2) research suggests consistent, clear and simple messages must be delivered. Often repeated. Supported by stories.

The paradox: leaders (owners, executives, teachers, parents) must encourage both a culture of accountability and nurture – we must be “fresh dew” on the lives we impact. In this current economy, it is the leader that must provide nourishment to the thirsty. Hope for the hopeless. Encouragement to the distraught.

Are you roaring or restoring?

Proverbs 19:12 (NLT) The king’s anger is like a lion’s roar, but his favor is like dew on the grass.