Why should Leaders learn to Listen?

"Leaders who don't listen will eventually be surrounded by people who have nothing to say" says Andy Stanley.

What do you think?

Great leadership requires great listening.

Leaders who talk more than they listen:

• Miss out on excellent ideas from others
• Make costly mistakes by discouraging dissent, and
• Drive their best people away

Eventually, the only people left will be those who have nothing to say.

Instead, learn to be the leaders who truly listen to their team. Create a culture where people feel heard, valued and appreciated. Which encourages them to keep contributing by working harder.

Now, what are some ways you can do so more effectively?

Aim to listen more than you speak during meetings or conversations. Make a conscious effort to give others the floor.

Avoid jumping to conclusions, keep an open mind. Don't interrupt, let the other person finish before responding.

Get your people talking. Ask things that can't be answered with a yes or no, like - "How do you think we can improve this?"

Eliminate distractions such as checking your phone or multitasking. Give the other person your full attention, face them, and make eye contact.

 Create an environment where employees feel safe to provide candid inputs without fear of judgment or punishment. Use anonymous tools like surveys or suggestion boxes.

Dedicate time for individual conversations, use them to understand concerns, goals, and suggestions. Take actions on the feedback and report back with updates.

As leaders, what are the other techniques you use to make sure you're truly listening?