Some leaders need to shut up and listen.

Want to become a better leader? Stop talking and start listening.

The most effective leaders know there is far more to be gained by surrendering the floor than by dominating it.

We have two ears and one mouth so we can listen twice as much as we speak. Knowledge is not gained by flapping your lips, but by removing your ear wax.

To be successful as a leader, you must first CONNECT with your team—to understand what matters most so you can help them achieve it. This requires listening.  Show me a leader who doesn’t recognize the value of listening to others and I’ll show you a train-wreck in the making.

Communication is a two-way street.

Some leaders fail to understand that the purpose of communication is to engage with others. Don’t be fooled into thinking that being heard is more important than hearing. Leaders seek first to understand before seeking to be understood.

Here are a few best practices that gain respect:

• Make eye contact. Look at someone when they are talking. The most important person is the one right in front of you. Ignore incoming calls, text messages, and email.

• Stay open. Listen without jumping to conclusions. Resist the urge to judge the other person or mentally criticize the things they tell you. Instead, look for the story behind the message, and the opportunity beyond the issue.

• Save your response: Hear the other person out before offering your opinion. Don’t be a sentence-grabber or spend time planning what to say next. Instead, focus on what is being said, both verbally and non-verbally (body language and tone). You can’t rehearse and listen at the same time.

• Clarify what you heard: Ask open-ended questions to ensure you truly understand. Two of my favorites: “Tell me more” and “What do you think?” The intent is not to put someone on the spot, but instead to fully comprehend the situation. Good questions are often far more powerful than answers.

• Value Input. Thank others for their input. Those who feel appreciated always do more than what is expected. Andy Stanley said it best: “Leaders who don’t listen will eventually be surrounded by people who have nothing to say.” Never forget to acknowledge those who contribute their time, energy, and thought leadership. Few things go as far in building good will as recognizing the value others offer.

Knowledge and wisdom are not gained by talking, but instead by listening.

Want help developing this important leadership skill? Let’s connect and schedule some time.