The Focused Leader

I learned an essential leadership skill from a mentor.  The skill of giving undivided attention.

This man always looked people in the eye, smiled and listened attentively.  He did not allow others to interrupt.  He worked at remembering peoples names.

People were important to him -  and it showed.

Great leaders focus... inwardly... on others... on the world around them.

Leadership is not just a set of skills.  It starts with an attitude that says "you are important".

Most leadership programs focus on what a leader should know and do, but the true starting point is focusing on people.

Turn off your smart phone, blank out the activity around you and make the person in front of you feel important by giving them what is most valuable to you...  your time and your undivided attention.