In today’s overcrowded, always on, hyper-cluttered and very public world, it is imperative that leaders take a step back and begin to use their original input/output devices more effectively.

Look in the mirror and you will see that not a lot has changed a lot from the original design of Human 1.0…still two ears for input and one mouth for output, (now joined by two opposable thumbs, which is the problem).  We have evolved(?) to spewing out more than we take in resulting in miscommunication, misunderstanding and just plain missing…life around us that is.

I have made a firm commitment to return to my roots, so to speak, listening, absorbing and observing more.  Additionally I am texting and social media-ing less.

From a leadership perspective, time spent with your team members, clients and generally observing the behaviors around you will provide a lot of free advice and direction to help you improve what you do or perhaps create something new.  Speaking of new,  I’m thinking that clothing with built in air bags might be helpful for all of my fellow humans who keep walking into walls, fountains and traffic due to texting. (thoughts…anyone want in?)

I have found over the years, and several business leaders I respect agree, that asking questions and sincerely listening to the answers provides a wealth of information.

Solutions are found by asking the team members doing the job about the issues they are facing.  Then as the leader (head coach) our job is to get the team the tools or training they need to help improve efficiency. Talking to clients, and not being afraid of the potential bad news they might deliver about your products and services, leads to improved relations, better long term value and ultimately a stronger business.

Often our job is to remove barricades and obstacles or even ‘blow up’ systems that don’t work…even if  “we’ve always done it that way”.

It’s time to utilize the full potential of the equipment you’ve been given and improve your listening ability as a leader.  If you listen more and use the insights to improve your effectiveness, you will ultimately be able to outsmart, out maneuver and out grow your competition.

If I can be of help to you or your leadership team, please connect and let’s see if working together makes sense:  https://www.holdsworth.com/contact

Learn more about Passive Listening @ https://blog.udemy.com/passive-listening/