Leadership, especially when trying to influence people to live a Christ centered life and change their behavior, will take listening, building relationships, and one-on-one contact.  I cannot stress enough the importance of listening to people.  If you are going to be a solid leader you must become a good listener.

Years ago when as I was just starting out in the ministry I was told that when people spoke to me I looked as if I was not interested in them.  Knowing that I truly cared about people I was shocked.  I asked why they would make that observation about me.  They pointed out that I appeared to be “glass eyed” just waiting for others to finish talking so I could speak what was going on in my head.  After a bit of self reflection I had no choice but to take this to heart.

I was so wrapped up in what I wanted to see done and what I thought a person should be doing that I was not digesting what they were telling me.  I was not listening.  I thought people would see my blank stares and just think “he is a busy man with a lot on his plate”.  The truth is that a good leader should never be too busy to listen and be attentive to a person’s needs.  I began to change my habit.

It took some time but little by little I began giving my undivided attention to the people I found myself leading and/or in conversation with.  I am sure they felt more appreciated and important but some other beneficial things happened as well.  Because of this I became a leader who listened and  I benefited in the following areas:

1.    I became more effective in recognizing the needs of people in my life.

2.    I deepened my heartfelt passion to serve the people God placed in my life.

3.    I made decisions that took myself and my  “team” in a unified direction in life

By simply listening to others as you lead you can better influence them in a positive way.  One on one time is priceless especially when your ears and heart are open to listen.  After you have heard you can speak volumes into a person’s life and that will give them an opportunity to be successful in life and the tasks at hand.