Here's a quick test of leadership. Does the leader look into the eyes of the person speaking to him or her? If so, the leader is attentive, interested and concerned about the needs of the team member. If not, the leader is distracted, unconcerned, or egotistical. Good leaders take people seriously. They listen carefully to the words, inflection, and emotions expressed by others.
Leaders listen to the ideas of their associates. They may not act on every suggestion they receive, but they listen with an ear to hear fresh methodologies. They understand that a concept that may propel them upwards may very well come from a member of their team.
They also listen to complaints. Leaders understand that emotions left unvented can be explosive and stifling or could very well suffocate the efforts of the rest of the team. They value the feedback of both team members and critics. Leaders learn because they listen.
The first step to wisdom is silence; second is listening.
