Smile and Let Smile

Nothing communicates respect faster than being fully listened to: not agreement, not authority, just presence.

Listening says, “You matter enough for my time.” It says, “I’m not rushing past you.” It says, “This moment is important.”

In workplaces, classrooms, and families, people open up when they feel respected – even in difficult conversations.

Multitasking while someone speaks sends a message too. So does putting the phone away. So does waiting an extra second before replying.

In a recent conversation I had, a friend told me that he had prepared well for a presentation to a high official, and that the official was into his mobile phone the whole time. He said he felt terrible, and wished he never went. And that he did not bother following up afterwards.

Listening is respect made visible.

#SmileAndLetSmile #LiftCulture #CultureCode365 Day 56 | Listening Is an Act of Respect