The positive benefits of being a good listener are much more
precious than we know, John Maxwell shares in Leadership Gold. Here are some of
John’s thoughts about the power of effective listening equaling effective
leadership:
1. Understanding people paves the way to leading them.
Leadership finds its foundation in understanding. To be worthy of the
responsibility of leadership, a person must have understanding into the human
heart.
2. Listening is the paramount way to learn. It is not chance
that we have one mouth and two ears. When we miss the mark listening, we shut
off a lot of our learning ability.
3. Listening can keep difficulties from increasing. Good
leaders are aware to small concerns. They pay attention to their instinct. And
they are keenly aware of what isn’t being said. To be an effective leader, you
need to let others tell you what you need to hear, not necessarily what you
want to hear.
4. Listening creates trust. David Burns, a medical doctor
and professor of psychiatry, concludes: “What most people really want is to be
listened to, respected and understood. The moment people see that they are
being understood, they become more motivated to understand your point of view.”
5. Listening can progress the business. The bottom line is that
when the leader listens, the business gets better. No one can go to the highest
level –– and take their business there –– without being a good listener.
Labels: cornerstone leadership solutions, david burns, effective leadership, effective listening, john maxwell, understanding
