Leaders Need to Speak Less and Listen More

Have you ever had a teacher who made you feel heard instead of just lectured?

The same principle applies to great leaders.

Research published by Harvard Business Review indicates that leaders who actively listen build greater trust, enhance job satisfaction, and foster creativity within their teams.

Who knew listening could be so powerful?

Consider this analogy: Imagine a lovable penguin facing off against a clever seal in a high-stakes chess match.

While penguins may not be renowned for their chess skills, what if our penguin had an earpiece linked to a chess grandmaster advising on every move?

Every little "peep" would be spot-on.

That’s the impact of effectively listening to your team—it directs you toward making informed decisions.

The Listening Versus Speaking Ratio

As a novice manager, you may feel the need to dominate conversations, laying down rules and correcting mistakes.

However, findings from Leadership IQ reveal that the ideal ratio of listening to speaking for leaders is 20:80.

Surprising, right?

You might argue, “I’m not just talking for the sake of talking; I’m sharing valuable insights.”

But here’s the truth: even the brightest minds can overwhelm their audience with excessive information.

Frequent lecturing can lead to repetitive communication, which is often a sign of poor dialogue.

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Your New Best Friends: Ears

You might be wondering, “How can I improve my listening skills?”

Take a deep breath; like becoming a manager, becoming a good listener takes time.

Start by being fully present in conversations, focusing your attention, showing empathy, and practicing patience.

Your journey to becoming a better listener is as crucial as the act of listening itself.

Make Listening Your Leadership Approach

By observing and emulating effective leaders, you’ll discover that their “secret sauce” is comprised of more listening and less talking.

But beware—people can easily detect insincerity.

Be authentic in your efforts to truly hear your team.

Tune In and Transform

Your ambitious goal for the upcoming weeks should be: LISTEN MORE, TALK LESS.

Remember, your team members are not just task-doers; they are individuals with unique ideas, valuable skills, and essential insights.

Adopt the “Ears Open, Mouth Shut” principle and become the outstanding boss your team deserves.

Ready to excel? Put on those listening ears and create magic in your workplace.

You Got This

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In the first video, When Managers are Insecure, Employee Voices Aren't Heard: Ethan Burris, Ethan Burris discusses how insecurity in management can stifle team communication and engagement.

The second video, How Do I Work with a Difficult Boss? | Coaching Real Leaders, provides practical coaching insights on navigating challenging boss-employee dynamics.