The Iceberg Effect: Why Behaviour at Work Isn’t Always What It Seems
When communication breaks down at work, it’s rarely about the words themselves. It’s about what’s really going on beneath the surface.
As a communication motivational speaker, Dr Alison Edgar MBE helps teams and leaders understand why workplace behaviour isn’t always what it seems — and how to build stronger connections by going deeper.
What Is the Iceberg Effect?
Think of an iceberg. The small part above the surface? That’s what we see — behaviour. But the real mass lies hidden below. Our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs.
When someone’s tone is sharp or they shut down in meetings, it’s easy to judge the behaviour. But truly effective communication requires us to ask: what’s really going on underneath?
That’s the Iceberg Effect — and understanding it is the first step toward improving team dynamics, reducing conflict, and creating a more cohesive workplace.
Why Communication Fails (and How to Fix It)
So many communication issues stem from assumptions. We assume someone’s being rude or dismissive when they may be:
Feeling anxious or under pressure
Unsure how to express themselves clearly
Operating from a completely different communication style
A motivational speaker on communication helps uncover these hidden layers — giving teams tools to decode behaviour and speak to each other more effectively.
How Alison Uses Psychology to Improve Communication
In her high-energy keynotes, Alison combines psychology with practical frameworks like:
🧠 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):
CBT shows us that thoughts drive feelings, which drive behaviour. Understanding this chain helps leaders and teams respond with empathy, not frustration.
🎯 DISC Behavioural Profiling:
By identifying your own natural style — and learning how others tick — you can adapt your communication to be clearer, calmer, and more impactful.
Whether you're a fast-paced “red” or a harmony-seeking “green,” DISC gives a shared language for better conversations and stronger results.
Real Example: Misread Behaviour, Missed Opportunities
Let’s say someone always goes quiet when ideas are challenged. You might assume they’re disengaged — but the truth might be:
They fear being judged
They need time to process
They value harmony over confrontation
By recognising the iceberg, leaders can shift from reacting to responding. A simple change in approach can unlock better dialogue and deeper trust.
Why Book a Communication Speaker Like Alison?
Most training focuses on what to say. Alison focuses on why we say it — and how to make it land.
✅ Relatable, Real-World Advice
✅ Practical takeaways your team can use the next day
✅ High energy, high-impact delivery that sticks
From executive teams to early career talent, Alison helps people speak and listen in a way that actually gets results.
Final Thoughts
Communication is about more than just words. It’s about understanding the full picture — the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that shape how we show up at work.
That’s the power of the Iceberg Effect. And it’s why businesses book Alison Edgar MBE again and again — because she helps people really hear each other, not just talk louder.
Ready to level up communication in your organisation?