Leaders Listen Intentionally

Have you ever wanted to talk to someone but they were solely listening to the person they were talking to? 

You wait on the sideline waiting for your turn. 

You may have the desire to quickly interrupt, say your thing and then move on but the listener in the scenario has the posture and body language that says, “the person I am talking to right now is the most important person”.

They acknowledge your twitch on the sideline but touching your arm, nodding, or by keeping their presence securely fixed on that person. 

So let’s talk about this leader who is listening and understands some of their possible beliefs. 

1. Be in the here and now. 

Good listening means stopping the inner monologue we all give and give your undivided attention to the person who is talking. 

2. Distractions don’t stand a chance with you. 

Put your phone away, turn off the TV and put your multitasking skills aside. 

3. Be curious. 

When listening to someone else, don’t anticipate their next statement or answer but truly listen. Ask questions like who, what, when, where, why and how to stimulate conversation. 

4. Be interested.

Don’t try to be an interesting person, be genuinely interested in the other person/people and you will have created a raving fan(s) for life. 

5. Be sincere and open.

Nothing ends a conversation quicker than a stern opinion or a rude tone. Make sure you are being sincere, asking questions and finding out what makes the other person light up. 

6. Watch your body language.

Though you may not say it, if you are letting your eyes wander to others or shifting your body to acknowledge others, people may feel rejected, misunderstood and hurt that they don’t have your full attention.

7. Truly listen. 

Even if you have a varying opinion, listening should not become a debate on your views vs their views. Fully hear what is being said and you may have some new insight as to what the opposing viewpoint looks like or come to the conclusion that you believe the same thing but perhaps express if differently. 

8. Don’t be in a hurry. 

If you have limited time, tell them you have x minutes up front. Then give them all x minutes.

9. Wrap up your conversations in a way that feels good to all. 

Be full of gratitude and love in your communications. Thank the other person for sharing.

If you are the person waiting, you could learn a few things about listening if you slow down and watch too. Listening truly is a remarkable art.

You might be surprised at what you hear.

Best,

Manal