September POWerful Word – LEADERSHIP – Week 2
Say, leaders have to use their brains a lot– but you know what else they need to use? Their ears! One of the most important skills a leader can learn is how to listen. When a leader listens, they have their ears…OPEN…their eyes… OPEN and their mouth…CLOSED. (Repeat). Why do you think it’s important for leaders to listen (i.e. hear people’s ideas & wants)? How do you know when people are listening to you (i.e. look at you, nodding, able to repeat)? How do you know when people are NOT listening? What kinds of distractions can sometimes keep people from really listening to others (i.e. thoughts in head, noises, phone)? How do you feel when you are talking to someone but that person isn’t really listening? What happens when we try to listen and do other activities at the same time? Leaders must listen if they are going to lead well.
If you have time: Good leaders also need to know who to listen to– Who do you go to for advice and help?