On the way to work, I was listening to a new CD of gospel music by our church choir. I’ve always enjoyed gospel music and while there are different genres (southern gospel, praise music, etc.), the most familiar and the most powerful gospel music shares the same characteristics as great leadership communication.

A good gospel tune is catchy. The words and music engage us. That makes the song easy to remember; more importantly it makes you want to remember and share with others.

Gospel music lyrics tend to be repetitive. The most powerful message of the song is constantly reinforced. And of course repetition is the mother of retention.

Finally, I appreciate the clarity of gospel music. You know exactly what the writer and musicians are trying to convey.

Great leaders know that if they want to be heard, understand and have their messages remembered, they need to be catchy, repetitive and clear.

So take a lesson from great gospel music and sing it!