I recently attended a Business Valuation Conference, and one of the speakers’ themes was becoming a great leader in the firm using Active Listening with the team, clients and yes, with the IRS. The speakers’ thoughts highlighted the art of learning how to listen.
A quick review of what Active Listening is:
Listening leaders are leaders who demonstrate respect for others’ experiences and perspectives, and who are able to effectively listen to other people:
· Empathetically
Listening leaders strive to understand the intent behind a message and respond appropriately.
· Actively
Listening leaders show they are fully engaged with the speaker and what they are trying to convey.
· Patiently
Listening leaders don’t interrupt the flow of dialogue and embrace two-way communication.
· In an informed way
Listening leaders use the information they gain to make informed decisions that benefit the organization.
· In a way that builds relationships
Listening leaders build relationships and connections with people and understand what their team members want from their work.
Here are some tips for listening leaders:
- Ask powerful questions: Pay attention to what the speaker is saying and not saying and avoid yes or no questions.
- Use positive body language: Maintain eye contact, lean towards the speaker, and show interest in what they are saying.
- Take notes: Take brief notes if needed to stay focused and engaged.
Leaders who take the time to learn how to use Active Listening in their day-to-day communications with clients, team members (and yes, even the IRS) will reap the rewards: deeper relationships, greater trust and sharper insights to fuel decisions, both in business and in life. Take some time this coming year to learn a little bit more about active listening and to hone the skill of being a Listening Leader, and you may be pleasantly surprised at the results.
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