I have selected two skills that I will actively work on during the next 6-12 months that I would like to improve. My plan will identify how I will incorporate these skills into my daily practice as a leader.
Active Listening
Over the years, I have found that I listen much less to people-either by not being interested in what the topic is or just wanting to make my point known. This is a weakness that must be resolved. The art of active listening is critical as a leader. You must be able to hear what is being said-take it in and engage your brain to decipher if the information is important.
The process I will utilize daily in my deliberate practice is to: 1. No talking first in meetings. 2. Repeat/summarize what the person just said I want to engage in conversation. 3. Request feedback.
The how:
1. In meetings, I will not be the first to speak. I will force myself to listen to the others in the meeting; really listen and take notes if needed. 2. If I want to speak, I must summarize what the person who made the comment that I want discuss said. I need to make sure that I heard them correctly. 3. After meetings/discussions where I am practicing, I will seek feedback from one or more that were in the meeting.
Public Speaking I list this as a skill to practice as I don't get many opportunities to engage this skill. I don't actively seek out these opportunities. I need to engage myself in looking for them as well as letting my Vice President know that he can count on me to speak on certain subjects. It is an important skill to master especially if one has to be able to lead a large department. Speaking to a group offers the ability to work on my delivery-this can always use improvement.
The process I will utilize daily in my deliberate practice is to:
1. Identify opportunities to speak in front of groups. 2. Practice before the event. 3. Seek feedback.
1. I will actively look for opportunities and also talk with my VP to seek out these types of events. 2. I will develop a format and practice at least two weeks ahead of the event. This will allow me to be comfortable with the content/material. 3. If there is someone I know at the event, I will engage the person to provide feedback to me on my presentation style and content of material.