Did you hear that?

The ROI on listening is through the roof.  Research has clearly demonstrated that listening is a good move regardless of what leadership philosophy you subscribe to. This is not to be mistaken for laissez-faire leadership where the leader is disengaged.  Listening is an active leadership characteristic, and tactic, that is meant to spark synergy and trust.  It not only fosters positive company culture, but is linked to a myriad of other aspects of leadership health.

Step 0: Put away the shotgun, cowboy.  Listening is about understanding and learning, and is not just time to prepare the correct answer.  If you have a reputation for verbally blowing people away, then it may take time for your peeps to believe they are not being set up.  Please, put the shotgun back up on the mantle.  Leave it there.

Step 1: Ask a question. Position yourself as a learner.  Focus on asking sincere questions in their area of expertise. Questions, depending on how they are asked, can be bridge building or condescending.  Use this as an opportunity to learn something, solicit opinions, or dig deeper on a topic.

Step 2: Stop talking.  This can be difficult.  No joke.  It may take practice.  Tip: Physically place your first two fingers over your lips, put your elbow on your desk, and lean in.  This helps block your words and puts you into a contemplative, listening position.

Step 3: Listen…really.  Eye contact and engaging body language lets the person know you’re tracking.  Ask follow-ups and clarifications as needed but fight the temptation to go back into railroad mode.  Running them over verbally is counterproductive and only, at best, produces short term results but sours the culture in the process.

Step 4: Repeat often.   It is a tool you will never regret using.

In terms of leadership activity, Double-down has become our default betting pattern, regardless of the cards we hold.  But, as John Wooden said, “Don’t mistake activity for achievement.”  Dig around and find listening in your leadership tool box and put it back on the top shelf.  

Scott Linklater is the Director of Recruiting and Training at RLHC and a PhD student in Leadership Studies at Gonzaga University, as well as a PNW native who digs rocking climbing, IPAs, and the Sounders.

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