Listen Like a Leader

Listening is more than being quiet while you wait to talk. Leaders listen to understand what another person is actually saying.

1. Be Present

Put away the distraction, face the speaker when appropriate, and give the conversation your attention.

2. Listen for Meaning

Ask yourself: What is this person trying to help me understand? What matters to them here?

3. Check Your Understanding

Try: “So you’re saying ________. Did I get that right?”

4. Respond to What They Said

Do not answer the version of the message you expected. Respond to the actual words and ideas you heard.

Try It

A teammate says, “I don’t think anyone is listening to my idea.” What could you do besides simply saying, “I am”?

💡 Funky Tip

Good listening can change what you decide next. If nothing you hear could ever affect your thinking, you may not really be listening.

I matter.

Your voice matters—and so do the voices around you.

🎒 Take It With You

Be present → understand → check → respond.