The list of characteristics that can turn a good leader into a great one is long, but the characteristic that tops the list is the skill of listening. Many successful leaders credit much of their success to their ability to effectively listen and luckily it’s a skill that can constantly be improved upon.
Here are a few tips on how you may be able to improve on your own listening skills, resulting in better and more effective leadership:
Consider the use of empathy. When you empathize, you create a rapport with your team, setting aside assumptions and learning about life from their point of view. This can be eye opening as a way to see different perspectives as well.
Make sure you observe body language, both yours and theirs. Remember not to fidget or gaze into space, and for heaven’s sake, put down the phone! Effective listening involves your entire body so you must be aware of your posture, facial expressions and hand gestures.
If it’s an appropriate time, offer opinions or anecdotes from your own life. This shows that you are engaged and interested in creating a continuing conversation. Be careful not to interrupt or turn their story into your story.
Thi is always the one that creates the greatest discomfort for leaders but let there be silence. The awkward pauses, hesitations and omissions can actually tell you more than the words, so let those moments happen without feeling the need to fill the silence.
Following these tips to becoming a more successful listener will allow you to engage more effectively with your team, colleagues and customers.
“The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention.” - Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen
Best,
Manal
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