Is your first reaction to listen when approached by members of your team? (122-4)

Leaders don’t lose intimacy with their team when they stop talking, only when they stop listening. Read Job 2:11-13.

In a day when travel was difficult and international travel was almost non-existent, Job had made some friends in distant countries probably based on his business dealings. When some of Job’s friends heard of the tragedy in his life they traveled great distances to mourn with Job and console him. By the time Job’s friends arrived boils had broken out all over Job’s body. He had such severe skin infections his friends did not recognize him.

Job’s friends felt his pain and were horrified to see their friend in such need. Mercifully they did not speak with wisdom or advice but only sat silently with Job for an entire week. Job’s three friends empathized with him. They sat in silence until Job began to speak. Whatever we discover about them later when we read their counsel, Job’s friends loved him and wanted to console and assist him so they waited and listened until Job was ready to speak.

Several things happen when a leader listens:

• They communicate the value of the other person.
• They show respect for the other person’s thoughts and often their needs.
• They indicate they are willing to learn and are teachable.

Is your first reaction to listen when approached by members of your team or are you simply waiting until they stop talking so you can give direction and keep the project moving?