Will You Listen to Me?

Pause a minute. Think of three people you know who qualify as honest-to-goodness leaders. Now consider two or three characteristics you believe common to all three. What characteristic first comes to mind? Their charisma? Their good looks? Their sense of humor? Probably not. More likely, they are apt to be thought of as informed inhalers of information. They are inquisitive and have a genuine interest in you and your subject matter. They are more inclined to listen than to talk and are likely to control the agenda, sculpting inquiries targeted to elicit specific knowledge. 

If you consider yourself a leader, chances are excellent you are also a good listener, with the following listening characteristics: 

• listening more than half the time
• constantly asking questions, using the answers as an opportunity to assimilate knowledge 
• listening on a non-discriminatory basis by giving equal attention to men and women, young and old, rich and poor 
• having good eye contact with the speaker 
• giving visual feedback-affirming what is said by shaking your head, voicing agreement, etc. 
• clarify what was said, if in doubt 
• not interrupting except to learn more 

Listening doesn't come naturally. Sometimes it's a joy, sometimes work. Regardless, everyone deserves an equal opportunity to have your ear. Knowledge comes from the most unexpected sources.