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Presented by Lisa Bishop
I am examining 5 habits of an extraordinary leader. Yesterday’s habit was to be a learner. Today’s habit is to be present. One way to practice presence is through your listening. We all have been taught listening is important, but few people have mastered this critical skill. You may already think you are a good listener, but there is a big difference between listening and hearing. And whether you listen or don’t, it will affect your impact as a leader.
When you are in a leadership role, you create the tone of your team and your organization. Your actions directly influence the level of trust, collaboration, and contribution you inspire in the people who work with and for you. Being truly present and listening in a way people feel heard and understood creates an experience for people. They sense you really care, and when you demonstrate a genuine interest in other people, you increase trust. How can you level up your leadership through listening? By practicing presence. One way to do this is by maintaining eye contact. I once worked for a senior leader who rarely paid attention when people talked. In one-on-one conversations, if he were anywhere near his computer, he would give a hand motion for someone to start talking but he would keep looking at his screen. In meetings, he would constantly check his phone or be on his iPad. It was pretty deflating for the team, and if I am honest, it was very frustrating, especially when he was the one who called the meeting.
Your lack of listening shows a lack of interest. When you are in conversation with someone, put the phone down, turn it over, or better yet put it in your pocket or bag. Studies have shown just merely holding your cell phone or keeping it visible on the table while you are conversing can have an adverse effect on listening. So, be intentional and give the individual talking your entire focus.
If we look to the example of Jesus, we see he was fully present with people. He had a million things to tend to, yet when someone was face to face with him, he gave them his full attention. He did not allow himself to be easily distracted or fall into the temptation of multitasking.
Do you create an experience for people where they feel your focus is on them when they are talking? Who is someone you can practice being present with today? When you truly listen to others, it’s a gift.