Leaders listen to opposition

Leaders listen to opposition, they have to. Success and leadership does not come in a vacuum or solo. Whether it is internal or external opposition to a change or strategic initiative, detractors can and often have something valuable to add to the discussion and the outcome. There may be a flaw in what's being proposed that someone is trying to bring to the attention of the leader. If you don't listen, you may be missing an important opportunity to offer a better, more robust change or initiative. Listening also validates the other person's right to express themselves and let's them know their voice matters. If others don't follow, you don't lead.

Not listening to the opposition can be a sign of weakness in your own perception of yourself. Never think you are too important or the idea is always rock solid.

Leaders are by nature collaborators and listeners. Time and again, listening to people who have diverse, opposing, or even hostile points of view only enhances the chances of the initiative to be more successful. At all levels, listening to opposition can strengthen the organization.

Leaders face the facts

And the facts are that failure and mistakes will happen. The leader knows something is not going to go right, sooner or later. Significant mistakes will happen and things fail, whether it is a new product launch, a financial deal, an invention, or a company. What happens with a leader when these hit is facing them head on. Admitting mistakes, taking responsibility, being humble in the face of failure and not placing blame are responsibilities leaders take to face the facts. Once these actions are taken, corrections are made and they move on.