Like a Parent, Like a Leader “I hear you!”

Dear LinkedIn Community,

Welcome back to the first 2024 newsletter "Like a Parent, Like a Leader.” This time we discuss about the importance of active listening.

Starting the New Year with a 'No' Revolution

We started the new year with a revolution, not the expected…My boys decided to declare their independence by responding with a ‘No' in a few simple asks. Let me share a few examples. Could you please have a healthy breakfast? “No, we prefer lucky charms”. Could you please wear your jackets because it is cold outside? “No, it is not cold”. Could you please clean your room that is full of legos and toys? “No, we like it like this”. My usual tactics of explanation, directive commands, or even a bit of begging didn't always succeed.

On the evening of January 1st, we decided to go for a bike ride. At around 5pm, it was cold and I suggested jackets, and the familiar 'No, we are fine' came up. This time, feeling unusually relaxed, I simply said, 'Alright, I hear you. I trust that you don’t feel that it is that cold outside. But what if you feel it is cold when we step out or after we cycle a bit?' The response was surprisingly cooperative. They would wear the jackets and carry them wrapped around their bellies. The magic phrase was 'I hear you,' a genuine acknowledgment of their perspective and respect for their decision.

The art of ‘I hear You’ in leadership

This got me thinking about its applicability in the corporate environment. Leaders often face situations where team proposals, though passionate and well-intentioned, may not align with the organization's strategy or current priorities. While saying 'hold on' might be necessary, the way leaders convey this message is vital. A lack of time or other constraints should not hinder the empathetic explanation of the decision. It's about valuing the team's time and energy, appreciating their initiative, and leaving the door open for future revisions based on changing business conditions.

The power of actively listening and expressing empathy ensures that the team not only feels heard and appreciated but also receives constructive feedback that encourages them to continue innovating. Instead of frustration, they gain motivation to revisit and refine proposals with an understanding that leaders are committed to exploring these ideas when the time is right.

In the corporate environment, the power of saying "I hear you" cannot be overstated. Leaders often find themselves in situations where they must navigate the delicate balance between encouraging team creativity and aligning with organizational strategies. When faced with proposals or ideas that, for various reasons, cannot be immediately implemented, the way leaders respond becomes pivotal. It sets the stage for a collaborative and resilient team dynamic, where individuals are more likely to persist in presenting ideas and contributing to the organization's growth.

?So, when was the last time you told your team, 'I hear you'?"