How often does someone have to do something over because they didn't listen the first time? If you have kids then the number of times that comes to mind is greater than the average. There is an under-appreciated value in listening skills. When you listen to someone at a party and ask relevant questions you will likely be viewed as a great conversationalist. When you do most of the talking you will likely view the other person as a great conversationalist. 

Why is such value placed on listening skills? We think listening is valued not only because people want to be heard, but because when you listen, time is saved. You save the person from having to repeat themselves. You save yourself the time of researching something. If you listen with intent to understand you gain valuable knowledge about the person you are interacting with. The customer that you listen to with intent to understand; you are better able to help solve their need.. The employee you listen to to understand; you are better able to lead because you know where they are coming from. The spouse you listen to with intent to understand; you are more able to communicate with. Take time to hone your listening skills... Listening is a crucial part of good relationships.

The Local Impact Zone (LIZ) book club read "The Five Levels of Leadership" by John C. Maxwell for January. The owner of Time Managed, Sara Jane Weidner, had the opportunity to participate on a panel reviewing the book for those that cannot attend the physical meeting. 

If you have not read the book; we encourage you to. If you would like to hear the discussion go here: http://liz-reads.com/january-leadership-conversations/ 

If you would like to read a summary of the book go here: 
http://liz-reads.com/book-summary/

We hope you enjoy the book as much as we did; many of the quotes featured weekly in our planners are by John C. Maxwell.