By Jennifer Maffia (Inspired by Jon Gordon’s original article, 9 Ways to Lead Positive And Communicate Well) 

As someone who has spent my career helping professionals find meaningful roles and guiding life sciences companies to build strong teams, I see daily how much leadership and communication impact not only performance but also culture and retention. When I came across Jon Gordon’s excellent article “9 Ways to Lead Positive And Communicate Well” 

I immediately felt aligned with his message. His insights apply beautifully to the work I do in recruitment and leadership development, and I wanted to share my reflections from the perspective of our industry. 

Here are ten ways leaders can inspire positivity and strengthen communication, with the first nine drawn from Gordon’s timeless guidance and the tenth added from my own experience. 

1. Shout Praise, Whisper Criticism 

I fully agree with Gordon’s reminder to recognize publicly and coach privately. In recruiting, I have seen how much more motivated professionals become when their contributions are celebrated openly. On the other hand, difficult feedback lands best in one-on-one settings where dignity is preserved. Leaders who practice this build trust quickly and retain top performers longer. 

2. Smile More 

A smile may seem like a small gesture, but I have watched it transform interviews and client conversations. Gordon is right that smiles are contagious, and in our high-pressure industry, they can create a sense of calm and optimism. Leaders who smile model resilience and create approachable environments. 

3. Do Not Complain 

Complaining drains credibility and weakens team energy. Gordon’s comparison to vomiting is unforgettable, and it resonates with what I have seen in life sciences teams. Constructive problem solving leads to progress, while complaint-focused conversations only spread frustration. Leaders must set the tone by refusing to normalize negativity. 

4. Encourage Constantly 

Encouragement is the fuel that helps people rise to challenges. I cannot count how many times a candidate doubted their ability to step into a bigger role until they were reminded of their strengths. Gordon’s reminder that every breathing person needs encouragement is spot on. The best leaders never miss the chance to inspire confidence. 

5. Spread Positive Gossip 

I love this concept from Gordon because it reframes gossip into something uplifting. In my own networks, I make it a practice to share stories of colleagues’ and candidates’ successes. Not only does it boost morale, but it also builds reputations and strengthens community trust. Teams thrive when leaders model this habit. 

6. Listen More, Talk Less 

This is one of the most underrated leadership skills. As Gordon points out, being truly heard can move people to tears. In my work, the best placements happen when I really listen to what both the candidate and the client want. Leaders who listen create loyalty because employees feel valued, not managed. 

7. Welcome Feedback 

The leaders I admire most are those who invite feedback and act on it. Gordon highlights that openness to feedback signals a growth mindset. I have seen how this plays out in companies: when leaders welcome suggestions, innovation flows. When they shut it down, people disengage. 

8. Celebrate Success 

Success deserves to be acknowledged, whether it is closing a major project milestone or simply navigating a tough week. Gordon’s emphasis on celebrating wins reminds me of the importance of pausing to honor progress. In recruiting, I celebrate every successful placement as not just a transaction but a transformation for both company and candidate. 

9. Use Positive Physical Communication 

Gordon is right in that communication is not just verbal. In person, a handshake or fist bump can establish warmth and partnership instantly. Even in our digital-heavy world, leaders can still bring human connection into their interactions by acknowledging presence, showing enthusiasm, and finding small ways to express care. 

10. Retain Through Recognition and Development 

From my own perspective in staffing and recruiting, I would add one more point: leaders who communicate positively are also the ones who retain talent. When employees feel seen, supported, and encouraged, they are far less likely to leave. Beyond day-to-day positivity, leaders must connect communication to long-term growth by offering recognition, career development opportunities, and clear pathways for advancement. This tenth point is critical for life sciences organizations competing in a tight talent market. Retention is not just about salary — it is about how valued people feel. 

Final Thoughts 

Jon Gordon’s “9 Ways to Lead Positive And Communicate Well” offers timeless wisdom, and in my experience working in the life sciences industry, I have seen every one of his points play out in real life. His message that positivity is powerful is not about being naive, but about being intentional. Leaders who encourage, listen, celebrate, and build trust create environments where both people and companies thrive. 

By adding a tenth benefit focused on retention, I want to highlight the link between positive communication and long-term success in talent strategy. In industries like biopharma and life sciences where innovation depends on people, this connection cannot be overstated. 

Gordon’s work inspired me to reflect on my own leadership philosophy, and I am grateful for the reminder that effective communication is less about complexity and more about consistency, empathy, and heart. 

About Jennifer Maffia 
With over 20 years of experience in clinical staffing, Jennifer Maffia connects pharmaceutical, biotech, and life sciences companies with top-tier clinical talent. She is known for building lasting client relationships, supporting tenured recruiters, and driving impactful hiring strategies. Through industry partnerships and active board involvement, Jennifer remains committed to advancing the life sciences field and improving patient outcomes.