I am going to change my format for the next several blog postings and take a look at the word: LEADER. I want to look at each of the letters in the word LEADER and connect to an attribute leader's possess.
- L … Listen
- E … Encourage
- A … Advise
- D … Decide
- E … Empower
- R … Respond
Today, I will comment about the importance of Listening as it relates to leadership. One of the key traits impactful leaders have is their ability to LISTEN. Through listening a leader can learn and discover many things. Active listening also conveys you are interested and care about what is being shared with you. This helps people recognize recognize their input is valued and will encourage them to keep the flow of information and ideas intact.
In Wikipedia there is some useful information about 'active listening':
The Wikipedia entry provides a summary of tactics and indicates some sample situations where 'active listening' can effectively be used.
One of my favorite ways to focus on listening is via the asking of questions. Questions can shift the focus of the conversation to the person being asked the question. Listening is a key tactic to indicate you care about what is being shared as the person answers the question and as they continue to expand the conversation in new areas.
Consider the value of listening and what it means to you as a leader. Leaders listen & learn and through this position their group/organization to be on the path of success.
Next posting: E … Encourage
Signing off for now - LD Guy from MN
Great idea for a series Dave! Regarding 'Listen", here is a tidbit I learned. The words coming out of the mouth are important, but there is also a "desire of the heart" and a "fear of the heart" being expressed. If we can "hear" and reflect these two expressions, a deep connection occurs! We encourage when we listen at the level of the heart and by the way, I'm excited that you will do "Encourage" next. Keep up the GREAT work Dave!
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