Listening is a key leadership skill. And one that is often underused. We make assumptions about what we think we already know, or about what other people are going to say, think or do. John C. Maxwell suggests a listening audit after every interaction with someone:
- Am I open to other people’s ideas?
- Am I open to changing my opinion based on new information?
- Am I actively seeking feedback and input in order to move the team forward?
- Do I act defensively when criticized, or do I listen openly for the truth?
- Do I ask questions in every conversation?
He believes that if leaders listens qualitatively and regularly, this will result in better connections with people; building confidence in those they listen to and encourage; ideas-generation; increased action with all these new ideas; and an evolving and developing of emotional intelligence as they reflect and self-adjust on their interactions.