A Management Moment with…Words of wisdom you can implement in a minute or less
Stephen Covey, photo: wikimedia.org
“When you really listen to another person from their point of view, and reflect back to them that understanding, it’s like giving them emotional oxygen.”
— Stephen Covey
As a manager, your people are competing for your attention. The busier you are with your many priorities, the more desperate they’ll be to get a bit of your time. Notice the urgency in how they ask: “I just need two minutes to run this by you.” or “Can I grab you for one moment today?”
When you do grant them that moment, be sure to:
1. Thank them for their patience and persistence in getting to you.
2. Listen thoughtfully and thoroughly, noticing both the message and their delivery.
3. Demonstrate that you understand by restating their issue in your own words, starting with “Let me make sure I understand” or “So, the challenge we’re facing is…” or “So, you are advocating that we do…”
After you’ve acknowledged them and shown them that you understand, watch their body language. Chances are they’ll relax their shoulders, smile, and take a slow calming breath…emotional and physical oxygen!