We need to develop the skill of listening. The writer of Proverbs writes, “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame” (18:13). James tell us to be quick to listen and slow to speak (Jas 1:19).
We are all guilty of not listening well.
Leaders have noted the importance of listening for years. Stephen Covey made popular the phrase seek first to understand, then to be understood. This action involves good listening.
Missiologist David Hesselgrave advocated that we should be “receptor-oriented” in our communication.
One of the coolest book titles is Ron Johnson’s How will They Hear if We don’t Listen.
Leaders, especially innovative ones, work diligently to be good listeners.
Do you want to lead your team to innovate? You must understand them. In order to understand them, you must listen.
Jon Hirst and I are hosting our fourth Innovation and Mission livestream event on the topic of listening, August 10 at 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time.
“Innovative Listening: Learning from Those You Seek to Serve” will address the importance of listening and offer practical actions for leaders to become better listeners. Leaders are listeners.
The event is Free. Spaces still remain, but you must register HERE.