Leading Every Day, Book Four:  Leading Effective Groups by Kaser, Mundry, Stiles, and Loucks-Horsley, Corwin Press

We all know that being a great leader includes being an effective communicator. But often we forget that listening is an integral part of communicating effectively.  Recently I was reading John Maxwell's book, Leadership Gold, in which he makes the point that the best leaders are listeners.

Leadership, he states, finds it source in understanding. Understanding people precedes leading them. If we don't understand someone--who they are, and their perspective--how can we as a leader ask for their help.  Second, Maxwell reminds us that listening is the best way to learn.  The cliche, 'the more you learn, the more you know,'  rings in my ears. As leaders, we often gain the most critical knowledge by listening to those in and around our organization.  Third, listening can keep problems from escalating. Maxwell references the Chinese proverb, "Listen to the whispers and you won't have to hear the screams." Wow! Isn't that true!  We must be attuned to all that is happening in our organizations. Next, listening establishes trust. When leaders truly listen to what people are telling them, and then act accordingly, people are validated. When people believe in their leader, they are more willing to follow them where they lead. Finally, listening can improve the organization.  A leader who listens to the thinking of others will be a better leader.

Do you listen to others? Listening can create in us a best leader!

Lori Stollar is the Program Specialist for Curriculum and Professional Development at the Lincoln Intermediate Unit, an educational service agency, in New Oxford, PA.  This year she will be blogging on the topic of leadership, culminating in a presentation at the 2011 ASCD Annual Conference in San Francisco.  Lori facilitates the Women's Leaderhip PIC and is serving as a 2011 Conference Scholar.