Too Much Information
Leaders should listen more and talk less.
We sometimes make the mistake of giving more information to others than we should.
It can be a truly cringeworthy moment for the listener. Yet, we don’t realize we did this until it’s too late.
Maybe it’s because we get nervous, or anxious, or simply the desire to impress takes hold.
And this happens to the best talkers among us. We see it with co-workers, parents, friends, and worst of all, leaders. In leadership, the drive to be relatable and open steers some to overshare.
If you are in a leadership position, your team doesn’t need to, let alone want to know your family history of digestive problems.
Your team wants to know that you will listen to them, acknowledge them, and do what you can to support them.
There is the key to a successful day of leadership: listening. Yes, you can talk about your favorite sports team or your favorite coffee or that biography on Harry Truman you’re reading.
But most importantly, listening is what gives you value as a leader and earns you the respect of your team.
Don’t overshare, instead listen and avoid the cringe.
