I noticed something during an intense project meeting a while back. One of my team members, Sarah, was sharing a crucial insight, but her words seemed to fall on deaf ears.
I glanced around the room— a number of people were either checking their phones or having sidebar conversations. I could see the frustration in her eyes as she paused, waiting for someone to acknowledge her input.
That moment hit me hard. It made me realize how often we, as leaders, miss out on valuable contributions because we’re not fully present. We get caught up in our thoughts, distracted by the next agenda item, or forget the power of truly listening.
From that day forward, I committed to change. I decided to be fully present in every conversation, to listen with the intent to understand and to show my team that their voices mattered. This shift in approach transformed our meetings and strengthened our team’s trust and collaboration.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson that every conscious leader needs to embrace: the importance of being present. It’s about listening to understand, not just to respond. But let’s be honest—it’s easier said than done.
Active listening is key. It’s what fosters genuine communication, builds trust, and shows empathy towards your team. During our team meetings, I make a conscious effort to listen fully before responding. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that makes a world of difference.
One method I use is paraphrasing. When a team member speaks, I repeat what they’ve said in my own words. This confirms my understanding and shows that I value their input. It’s like saying, “I hear you, and what you say matters.”
So, how do you show your team that you’re truly listening? Here’s what works for me:
I maintain eye contact. It’s a subtle yet effective way to convey that I’m engaged. I also nod occasionally, giving non-verbal cues that I’m following along.
When someone is speaking, I focus on their words, their tone, and even their body language. I picture the scenario they’re describing, almost like watching a movie in my mind. This helps me stay in the moment and fully grasp their message.
Sometimes, I take notes. It’s not just about remembering details; it’s about showing respect. It demonstrates that I value their thoughts enough to write them down.
Being fully present during conversations isn’t just a leadership skill—it’s a way of building deeper connections with your team. And trust me, your team will notice and appreciate the effort.
What do you do to show your team members that you’re truly listening?
