One of the most valuable leadership skills is knowing how to listen to others. Good listening allows someone in a leadership position to get valuable feedback on team members’ feelings about the projects they work on. A big part of effective listening is maintaining eye contact, which helps one avoid distractions during a conversation. Leaders should also keep in mind that listening isn’t limited to verbal communication – they should be able to understand body language as well.
Good communication skills are another important quality in a business leader. Clear communication both verbally and in writing will help team members to understand the leader’s expectations. Public speaking is an important part of being a leader, and those qualified for the job should be able to communicate effectively in both formal presentations and casual conversations with co-workers.
Even if one naturally possesses many of the qualities found in an effective leader, taking classes in business leadership is almost always beneficial. Leadership training programs can help one become more confident in the skills they already know, and learn new skills as well. It is also a way to interact with other aspiring and successful business leaders and draw on their personal experiences.