The good conversations, the kind that matter, the sort that change how people think and act, have this in common: People are still listening after the talking is over.
- They’re contemplating the significance of what was uttered.
- They’re thinking about what they discovered.
- They’re considering how they want to do something different (or be different).
In a world of deafening roars (did you bring your megaphone today?) where everyone seems to be operating from their own agenda, it’s never been easier to differentiate yourself as a collaborative leader. When with others:
- be present
- work to co-discover something neither of you were thinking before the conversation began
- and be grateful for what others are giving you in the course of the discussion.
Do this, and people will listen even when you’re not talking.
