More Than Just Being There: The Art of Available Leadership That Listens, Connects, and Thrives!
In leadership, availability is not just about being physically present, but also about being emotionally and mentally accessible to your team. It's about creating a space where your people feel seen, heard, and understood.
One of the key aspects of leadership is engaging with your people genuinely. Asking "how are you doing?" isn't just a courtesy, it's a commitment to listen and understand their experiences. It is in these authentic interactions that we cultivate a deeper connection, fostering an environment of trust and respect.
A study by Harvard Business Review (2018) found that leaders who listen effectively are likely to have more inspired and engaged employees. Moreover, when leaders are open and accessible, it helps to break down hierarchical barriers, promoting a culture of collaboration and mutual growth.
However, if we ask the question without intending to hear what our people have to say, we risk creating a disconnect. It's essential to mean what we say and follow through with our actions. Not doing so can lead to a deterioration of trust, a crucial component of effective leadership.
Being an available leader also involves being responsive to feedback and taking necessary actions. This demonstrates that not only do we listen, but we also value their input and are willing to effect change based on it.
In essence, making ourselves available as leaders isn't just a matter of showing up—it's about actively participating in our people's growth and development. Because when our people thrive, so do we.
Reference:
Zenger, J., & Folkman, J. (2018). The Power of Listening in Helping People Change. Harvard Business Review. https://lnkd.in/gpEZuR4D
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