Abraham Lincoln
L.A. Week 30 Day 5 March 22, 2014
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is more than America’s 16th president. He’s a model of leadership who demonstrates traits and characteristics that are essential for present day executives and business leaders. Like Lincoln, you face the challenge of executing a vision, while also managing competing priorities. Leading others to join you in that vision is a difficult task, and one that can be fraught with self-doubt, frustration and other negative emotions. Before and after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln confronted a variety of trials and obstacles, but remained committed to his vision to create a free nation. While Lincoln embodies many admirable qualities, three are especially relevant: Lincoln was a master listener. Like most leaders, Lincoln dealt with conflicting views and personalities, yet he’s known as a man who listened. People were free to oppose his point of view without fear of retaliation. Of course, listening wasn’t always an indication of Lincoln’s agreement. He would simply listen to competing ideas, process what he’d heard, and then respectfully make his final decision. Executives can model their behavior similarly, fostering open dialogue by allowing others to offer ideas and suggestions. Here’s how:
Listen for the meta- and the micro-message. In communication, there is often a message beyond the message. For example, “How are you?” is a common question to which most respond, “I’m fine.” Yet, there is usually more to it, so leaders must listen not only to the words, but also the tone, pitch and overall delivery of the words to get the true message.
Create a space for open dialogue. Inviting others to express their ideas and opinions, even if they may differ from yours, fosters better listening. Do this by asking open-ended questions, “Do you have something specific in mind?” or “Tell me more about your thoughts on this.” This gives you a broader perspective and helps
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is more than America’s 16th president. He’s a model of leadership who demonstrates traits and characteristics that are essential for present day executives and business leaders. Like Lincoln, you face the challenge of executing a vision, while also managing competing priorities. Leading others to join you in that vision is a difficult task, and one that can be fraught with self-doubt, frustration and other negative emotions. Before and after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln confronted a variety of trials and obstacles, but remained committed to his vision to create a free nation. While Lincoln embodies many admirable qualities, three are especially relevant: Lincoln was a master listener. Like most leaders, Lincoln dealt with conflicting views and personalities, yet he’s known as a man who listened. People were free to oppose his point of view without fear of retaliation. Of course, listening wasn’t always an indication of Lincoln’s agreement. He would simply listen to competing ideas, process what he’d heard, and then respectfully make his final decision. Executives can model their behavior similarly, fostering open dialogue by allowing others to offer ideas and suggestions. Here’s how:
Listen for the meta- and the micro-message. In communication, there is often a message beyond the message. For example, “How are you?” is a common question to which most respond, “I’m fine.” Yet, there is usually more to it, so leaders must listen not only to the words, but also the tone, pitch and overall delivery of the words to get the true message.
Create a space for open dialogue. Inviting others to express their ideas and opinions, even if they may differ from yours, fosters better listening. Do this by asking open-ended questions, “Do you have something specific in mind?” or “Tell me more about your thoughts on this.” This gives you a broader perspective and helps