Listen First
When others are talking, we’re often chomping at the bit to add our two cents, give our perspectives, and speak our minds.
But keeping your thoughts and opinions to yourself until everyone else has spoken does two powerful things.
First, it allows others to fulfill their need to be heard.
But it also gives you get the benefit of hearing their thoughts and opinions before you render yours.
While others are speaking, you don’t have to let on what your opinions are. You don’t need to nod yes in agreement or frown in disagreement.
Sit still. Poker-faced.
Ask your questions.
Collect your information.
You’ll get your turn.
Image by Kim Scott, from Twitter.
Let’s say someone’s zipper is open. What do you say?
Ruinous empathy: Say nothing because you feel bad.
Manipulative insincerity: “Hey man, it happened to me last week!” (When it didn’t).
Obnoxious aggression: In front of a group of people, say, “Hey, big man, your barn door’s open! Hahahaha.”
Radical Candor: Whisper to the person, “Your fly is down.”
Tomorrow, the 2 Minute Tip will look at ways that as a boss, you can speak to show you care personally.
