Most people agree -- the top trait that effective leaders share is effective listening!
Why is this? It is because leaders lead people. And to lead people, you need to be able to move them from A to B -- from where they are to where they need to go. So how do we do this? We lead people by effectively communicating with them.
Well, what makes up effective communication?
We define communication as “the interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs.” Because it is an “interchange,” more than one person is involved. In other words, communication is a two-way street of listening and talking. Talking comes naturally, but effective listening is a skill you must acquire.
Dr. Steven Covey wisely said, “If I were to summarize in one sentence the single most important principle I have learned in the field of interpersonal relations, it would be this: Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”
Great leaders are first and foremost effective listeners -- who listen to understand. Even if you don’t plan to take on a leadership role anytime soon, having the ability to listen and communicate mindfully and effectively can improve your relationships.
In this day and age, learning how to cut through the distractions and really listen to the words someone is saying is a skill everyone can improve on. So if you’re looking to set yourself apart as a leader, a friend, a partner, or an employee, this is a skill that you need!
Take the first step toward improving your skillset.
Sign up for “How to Become an Effective Listener”, a webinar I’ll be hosting on August 18 at noon.
You can sign up here.
