What’s the most underused leadership tool?
I argue it’s listening.
We are bombarded with messages every day from brands, employers, colleagues, clients, friends, and family members.
With so much coming our way through our screens, it’s understandable that we begin to tune out the noise—anything that we don’t deem worthy of our attention.
Yet attention is what you need when you want to motivate, inspire, teach, or persuade.
And guess what? You won’t earn anyone’s full attention if you’re not willing to give them yours.
Start with being a better listener. Here are 5 tips to help:
1. Put that smartphone away and make a commitment to actively listen.
2. Listen more than you speak.
3. Listen to what’s not being said and notice the person’s body language and tone.
4. Be open to a different perspective.
5. Try your best not to let your natural tendency to formulate your responses before someone is finished speaking get in the way. Hear them out.
Attention is the hottest currency out there today. Make your people feel that they matter by giving yours to them. People who feel seen and heard are more likely to be engaged, and to stay.
Michael Piperno is a communication coach and executive presence expert. His insights empower leaders to communicate effectively and authentically.