March 2012
I think... I heard what you said?
2007 President, Connie Williams, began her March newsletter article with: “Think of someone you know who is well connected in her relationships, information and resources: She probably appears to be confident with herself and is willing to help others advance personally and professionally. She listens to others, gains knowledge and moves comfortably among people with influence.”
Now, let me ask you, have you ever been in a situation where you were looking directly in the eyes of the person that was so intently talking to you and you were trying to convince yourself that you really were listening to every word? And then that moment came, they stopped talking and you realized that you must have that “dazed” look on your face that says, “I don’t have a clue as to what you just said?” Unfortunately, we all have been there and it is not a good place to be. Communication is important in both personal and professional settings. It has been said that you spend hours utilizing one or more of the four basic types of communication: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It is that last one… listening… that is so important. Communication is critical, not only as managers and leaders, but in our personal life as well.
Why do we not listen? For many of us we are too busy talking, preoccupied, distracted, tired, or perhaps we are just “waiting for our turn to talk”. Successful people understand the value of becoming a good listener.
Dr. John C. Maxwell, America’s leadership expert, published a book titled, “Relationships 101 What Every Leader Needs to Know”. He said, “Leadership is a relationship-intensive endeavor. If your people skills aren’t strong, neither will be your leadership.” He also noted, “The ability to listen is the foundation to building positive relationships”, and then listed the benefits of listening.
Listening:
· Shows respect;
· Builds relationships;
· Increases knowledge;
· Generates ideas;
· Builds loyalty; and
· Helps others.
Let me encourage you to never take listening for granted … it can change your life.
EWTG has more than 400 members that can help you establish a network to help you “fine tune your listening skills”. You may want to consider joining an Executive Success Team, our small group mentoring program. EWTG Executive Success Teams are filled with good listeners and enrollment is now open.
Remember, a successful career is an investment and through your EWTG membership you will establish strong professional and personal networks, receive quality training, and position yourself for advancement.
|
Print Page
