Active listening ensures leaders understand what others mean, not only what they say, which reduces conflict and improves decision quality. Leaders listen for facts, concerns, and constraints, then reflect back key points to confirm accuracy. They ask precise questions, avoid interrupting, and summarize agreements and open issues before moving to solutions. Active listening also includes noticing what is not being said and inviting quieter voices into the discussion. Strong listening strengthens trust, improves collaboration, and prevents avoidable mistakes.
Question: What listening habit would help you confirm understanding before acting?