In leadership you will have your share of critics. Trying to appeal to or appease them is a waste of your time and energy. It’s not that what they think doesn’t matter, but what you think matters most. If we are honest we can all learn something from our critics. But in the end it’s about staying true to yourself, your values, your beliefs, and not being distracted. Entertaining your critics will only lead to increased frustration and exhaustion. It will only disappoint you in the long run. At issue here is your desire to speak out or defend yourself. I get it. So here is some advice for your consideration; most critics are usually criticizing you because you are doing what they said couldn’t be done. Don’t worry about keeping score or settling it. Let your actions and attitude speak for you. Nothing will annoy your critics as much and you can take the high road. It won’t always be easy but in the long run you will be glad you did.
Tag: Customer Service Skills
Leadership Minute: Listen Up
When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen. – Ernest Hemmingway
Listening is one of those ever-developing leadership skills. In our high tech world the art of undistracted listening is a waning skill. Listening is one of the highest compliments you can pay to another person. This means putting away your cell phone or tablet and actually making eye contact while acknowledging the other person. To the same degree we expect people to listen when we speak we should extend the same courtesy to others. People will feel respected when they are respected. Give the other person your undivided attention and hear what they have to say. You will be seen as a leader who cares and you will build your credibility as one who is engaged. Tune out distractions so that you can tune in to what’s really important. Listen up!