Sometimes Leaders Just Listen
Posted by Mitch Mitchell on Jan 14, 2013
I'm adding a video to this one as I don't have to write a lot, and it's a short video so you won't hurt yourself by watching it.
In essence, in this video I talk about the reality that leaders or people who are put into a leadership position at a certain moment don't always have to fix other people's problems. Sometimes we can't help ourselves and start offering advice, and you'll notice that suddenly there's resistance or debate against what you're saying. Who likes dealing with that?
Listening is a very powerful leadership tool in all areas, but especially in those times when it's the only thing you might have to do at the time. Sure, things might become more participatory later, but initially all you have to do is listen.
Heck, I guess I could have written the entire post; anyway, the video is below:
http://youtu.be/ljWLqibrKMk
I agree with you, Mitch. I have experience this and I have seen this from some other experienced people. Leaders can’t always fix everything and leaders can’t be always right, but sometimes people just need to say something to somebody.
Thanks Carl. It’s an important lesson to learn I believe.
Hi Mitch,
It’s been a while since I’ve been by. I’ve been in the process of re-working my blog and changing the focus.
Anyways, you make a great point here. Far too often people come in to new positions and start changing things right away. Often times they don’t have the background information so understand why certain things operate the way they do.
I think it’s always good when you come into a new position to sit back, listen, and observe for some time. It makes it much easier to identify areas that you need to address.
Thanks for sharing. I look forward to chatting with you again soon!
~Barry
Glad to see you here Barry; wondered why I hadn’t seen anything new coming from you in awhile. Yes, I’ve been burned by this one too often, and as a consultant, even though I’m normally called on to make quick change, I also realize that I need to listen better so I can make effective changes. It’s been one of the best lessons for me to learn over the years.
Yeah, I wanted to give it some space before starting to put out new content. I’ve started working with a coach for a little bit and I also wanted to wait to see where he thought I should take my blog, knowing that I needed to change some things. I still have a few changes to make, but I’m excited with where it’s heading!
Hope to see you back by again soon, and I’m back on a daily posting schedule.
~Barry