What strategies can leaders use to balance communication and listening, fostering an environment of trust and productivity?
In this episode, Natalie sits down with Colleen Rouse, founder of Thrive Today, to explore the challenges and nuances of communication and listening as a leader. They discuss practical strategies to foster open feedback, read body language, and adjust communication styles based on the situation. The conversation also highlights the importance of empathy and the critical role listening plays in leadership, offering valuable insights into how leaders can refine their skills to not only communicate effectively but also truly hear those they lead.
[00:01 - 04:10] Mastering the Duality: Communication & Listening
- Leaders often excel in communication but struggle with active listening
- Practical steps to create an open environment where people feel heard
- The dual nature of communication: being both a speaker and a listener
[04:11 - 12:50] Reading the Room: Body Language & Emotional Cues
- Recognizing and responding to body language in communication
- Adjusting communication styles to match emotional cues from others
- Balancing empathy with directness in difficult conversations
[12:51 - 16:30] Handling Hard Conversations: Directness with Empathy
- The art of giving direct feedback without harming the relationship
- The importance of slowing down conversations for clarity
- How to address vulnerability while maintaining firm communication
[16:31 - 20:45] Employee Retention: Listening to Understand
- Listening and valuing feedback as a tool for improving workplace culture
- How being heard equates to feeling valued, especially in leadership
- Recognizing when and how to make time for meaningful conversations
[20:46 - 23:35] Legacy of Leadership: Results & Relationships
- Balancing results and relationships in leadership
- The importance of intentionality in making connections
- Finding opportunities to add value to those who may feel overlooked
Key Quotes:
"Listening is done with your eyes as much as your ears." — Colleen Rouse
"You are not an effective communicator if you aren't a good listener." – Colleen Rouse
Connect with Colleen:
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenrouse
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cwrouse/?hl=en
Follow Thrive Today on Instagram (@thrivetodaywomen) and visit our website at Thrive Today.
Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-STAR Review!
