Listen Before You Lead
Many leaders are hired for their answers and then discover that the hardest part of the job is hearing the question. When you speak first, people often tell you what fits your view and leave out the part you most need to know.
Before your next important conversation, decide what you want to learn. Ask an open question, then let the person finish. Resist the urge to complete their sentence or shift to your own example.
Reflect back what you heard in a sentence or two. “It sounds like the deadline is workable, but the handoff worries you.” This gives the other person a chance to correct you, and it shows that their words registered.
Notice what happens to the quality of information you receive. People who feel heard tend to bring problems earlier, while they are still small. Listening does not mean you agree with everything. It means your decision will rest on a fuller picture.
Try this week
In one meeting this week, ask a question and wait until the other person has completely finished before you respond. Summarize what you heard before adding your view.
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