We learn from our employees if are willing to hear them. Open door polices are effective if honest, and we don't punish the messenger for bringing us bad news. It is easy to isolate ourselves from reality by not listening to any view but our own. None of us like bad news, but no news or information can lead us to the wrong decision. Management refused to listen to those objecting to the change, until consumers refused to buy the new product.
Successful leaders listen by observation.
They study their business, they carefully observe the premise, employees, customers they seek truth-they want to know how their business is faring. They understand that on site observation is listening. They look at the housekeeping of their business-its' appearance carries a strong message. They have learned the importance paying attention to the conversation, attitude, and body language of their employees. And, those that listen to us may discover we that do not listen.