It took a lot of courage. He stood in front of his team and…listened. He had asked each one what he or she needed from him. They took his question seriously and provided thoughtful and meaningful responses. Some of the needs he knew about but others were eye-opening and enlightening. Then he shared what he needed from them. They listened respectfully and asked clarifying questions.
This healthy exchange between a leader and his team is a reminder of what strong communication in healthy relationships looks like. In our relationships, it is our responsibility to first listen and then to talk. When we allow others to be heard, we send a message that their needs are important and thus they are valued. When we begin the conversation with our wants, needs or desires, we immediately invalidate others. When we make our relationships all about us, we damage our ability to effectively influence others.
Think about the relationships that are important to you on a personal and professional level.
Do you know the needs of those individuals?
Do you understand how to communicate to each person based on his or her personality needs?
Are you aware of their struggles, successes and plans for the future?
When you have a conversation, do you dominate with your opinions and ideas or do you ask thoughtful questions about the other person?
Having the humility to listen and the courage to learn is a cornerstone trait for powerful leaders.Choose to discover the needs of others before divulging your own and you will make a difference.
Larry
