I’ve written about this subject a lot, but I am still amazed how few people know how to listen.
The amount of times I’ve witnessed a conversation where the flow branches off over and over again … not because that’s where the topic is heading, but because people are moving it in different directions to satisfy their ego rather than to contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
The great irony is the closer you listen, the more it gives you.
Not just in terms of what you learn, but on being able to see where real opportunity is presenting itself.
The more you listen the more you gain, but it does require you really focus.
Listening is not hearing, it’s paying attention, being present even if you’re staying quiet.
I admit I wasn’t always the best at it, but the difference it made to me personally and professionally when this was pointed out to me was very strong … which is why one of the best bits of advice is don’t listen to reply, listen to understand.