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How to Connect With People

Guest post by: Jerel Benjamin

Article Overview: A leader's effectiveness is entirely dependent upon their ability to connect with people. This is a skill that either makes or breaks a leader and must be mastered.

How to Connect With People

"The defining moment of a leader is their ability to connect with their listeners."

- Jerel Benjamin

I'm sure all of us can think of a time we were forced to listen to someone who was "dry" and disconnected from their audience. Regardless of what message they were trying to relay, the information was drowned out by the reality that they simply did not possess the skills needed to engage the people to whom they were speaking. As a result, the message was not only lost, but the intent behind the message was completely forgotten along with the will to actually do whatever may have been recommended at the time.

Leadership is the ability to connect with those who listen to you. In fact, this is the lifeblood of any leader. Take the time to care about your people, and they'll take the time to listen to you.

Consider these points the next time you find yourself in a position where others are following your lead:

• Take time to consider carefully the type of audience you are speaking to.
• Engage with them. Ask questions if possible. Invite them to express their thoughts when appropriate.
• DO NOT consider yourself superior because you speak from a place of authority.
• Follow your message. Give your audience an opportunity to provide feedback at a later date.
• Develop relationships. Your message is a relational part of leadership. Use this to your advantage.

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Article Tags: connecting, jerel benjamin, leaders, leadership, people, relationships
Referred by: http://www.drjohnoda.com



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