Much attention is justly given to the importance of listening skills and yet little is specifically awarded to observation skills other than as an aside in communication training.
Think of how often you have sat in on a meeting and noticed a variety of non-verbal signals which indicate feelings that have not been directly expressed. Think of the memos or directives you have translated, much as a spy reads invisible ink, and the real meaning barely resembles the title. Skilled observers can spot shifts, reservations, meaningful omissions, faux enthusiasm, and suppressed anger.
Observation skills rank among the most valuable in the workplace and in life. They permit you to get beneath the surface and to notice subterranean conflict and alliances. Consciously hone them and they will generously reward you..
Go to a meeting and look for the dog that didn't bark.
2 comments:
It all comes back to Marcus Aurelius, doesn't it? Doesn't his meditations say something about in all things try to be in the mind of others?
I've often thought Meditations should be required study material for all aspiring executives. Who better in history to learn the art of managing/leadership/commanding/etc?
Daniel,
That's a great idea!
Michael
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