The “Leader-Listener:” How Being a Good Listener Helps You To Be A Better Leader

The best leaders don’t have the strongest voice; they have the strongest ability to listen. When told to

imagine a leader, most immediately picture someone who gives inspiring speeches or makes difficult

decisions look easy. Someone who takes charge in all situations. All of these qualities, although

important, overshadow the most important quality a leader can have – the capability to listen to others.

When we truly listen to our team members, we gain valuable insights, perspectives, and information that

can shape the decisions we make. From creating a collaborative work environment, resolving potential

problems, and helping improve team decision-making, listening plays a fundamental role in leadership.

Having a leader who listens has been shown to create psychological safety, the belief that one can

speak up without fear of negative consequences. Having the ability to speak freely creates a comfortable

environment for the flow of ideas and innovation, which is the foundation for high-performing teams.

Listening is more than just hearing the words someone is saying. The role of listening in leadership is

not passive; it is a proactive skill that requires attention, empathy, and open-mindedness. It requires being

present physically, mentally, and emotionally. Effective leaders listen to understand what their teammates

are trying to say; they look beyond the words, searching for both content and emotion. They ask questions

to clarify the content and work to notice the nonverbal cues. Having a leader-listener mentality allows

team members to feel valued and create a collaborative environment for teamwork and progression, where

every voice is heard and respected. Where they can feel truly heard at work. By taking what each person

has to say seriously, these leaders show that they value everyone as well as strengthen relationships

between colleagues, which can ultimately lead to greater success for the team. When team members feel

heard and understood, they are more likely to contribute their ideas, share their concerns, and work

towards common goals with commitment and enthusiasm. This ultimately leads to more informed and

well-rounded decisions that consider diverse viewpoints and potential consequences. Active listening

enables leaders to pick up on opportunities for learning or development that may go unnoticed as well as

to recognize individuals who need additional support or training.

Another benefit to active listening, besides creating an environment of respect and trust, is it allows

leaders to identify potential problems or concerns within their teams accurately, rather than with

incomplete or misinterpreted information. The cost of the unresolved conflict is a preventable $359

billion in lost productivity annually in the U.S. alone. Leaders who listen actively can recalibrate systems

and unlock potential. Listening to team members’ problems and concerns can aid in quickly resolving

potential issues and conflict that may harm the team. It enables the fostering of stronger relationships

among the team members, creating stronger cohesion, collaboration, and productivity. And even if a

leader cannot immediately solve every problem, simply acknowledging another person's perspective

demonstrates empathy and respect. These conversations foster stronger relationships and help create a

culture where challenges are addressed constructively instead of ignored.

Listening builds trust. Trust is a fundamental component of any successful team. When individuals feel

that they are being genuinely heard and understood, they are more likely to trust the person listening to

them. This trust is crucial for open and honest communication, which is essential for effective

decision-making and team productivity. In any setting, trust that is built through active listening can lead

to better teamwork and collaboration. Team members who trust their leaders and team members are more

likely to share their ideas and concerns, leading to a more inclusive and innovative work environment.

This openness can result in better decision-making, as all relevant information and perspectives are being

shared and considered. Additionally, trust established through active listening can improve morale and job satisfaction among the team. When team members feel that their voices are being heard and their

contributions are being valued, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work and

responsibilities. This positive work environment not only enhances individual performance but also

contributes to the overall success of the team.

Listening also leads to better decision-making. It is an often undervalued ability, yet completely crucial

when it comes to decision-making. No leader possesses every answer or every perspective. People, even

leaders, tend to be blinded by their perspective even if they don’t realize it. Everyone has certain biases

that can impact their ability to see things clearly, and listening to other viewpoints can help leaders to

become aware of these possible viewpoints. Decisions made without input from others often overlook

important details or unintended consequences. By seeking feedback from team members, leaders gain

access to a broader range of experiences and ideas. Diverse perspectives encourage critical thinking and

reduce the likelihood of bias or blind spots when influencing important decisions.

• 

Madison Mitchell

Secretary

2026 - 2027