“Employees should be listened to, but most of all they need to be heard”
This very wise sentence was spoken on Friday by the interviewed candidate. During yesterday’s walk by the river, this sentence was still ringing in my head. In this one sentence, I could close the definition of leadership that has gained enormous importance and perhaps even finally shaped during a pandemic, and that is human-based leadership. This type of leadership is defined by seeing, listening, and understanding team members. This is what employees expect from their bosses.
And as I wandered among the trees basking in the winter sun, I moved a little further in my thinking. Isn’t it true that we expect the same in other areas of life? In family relations, in male-female relations, in relation with our children? Have you ever heard or said: “My partner does not see me at all”, “My wife does not listen to me at all “, or “Mom, Dad, you don’t understand anything”?
Being ATTENTIVE is great art. Leaders with this skill lead committed and effective teams. Having this ability, we build lasting and strong relationships in our private life.
However, I don’t think it’s that simple. We are overworked, it is difficult for us to calm down. In the sheer volume of activities and the pursuit of time, it is difficult to find a place to listen to the needs of others, both in the professional and private spheres.
It seemed to me that I was very careful, especially towards my team, and even more towards my daughter – Zosia. And yet there came a point when I looked into reproachful eyes and realized that yes – I was listening, but not hearing at all. It seemed to me that I was very attentive, especially towards my team, and even more towards my daughter – Zosia. And yet there came a point when I looked into reproachful eyes and realized that yes – I was listening, but not hearing at all.
