Make informal conversations and "listening sessions" an important part of your company culture.

It's critically important that you as the leader takes the initiative to informal conversations with your team members with the objective to "not talk" but to "listen." One of the dying leadership skills is the ability to "actively and intently listen."

The ability to "listen" is especially important to exercise with your team members but also, of course, with your peers, senior leaders, partners, and customers. I'll recommend leaders to "hold back" — practice not to talk first and to intently listen. When these conversations happen in an informal 1-on-1 setting you'll be amazed at what you will learn! This also builds a tremendous trust, motivation, and engagement.

Take action. Set up an informal 1-on-1 session today with a team member. In the new hybrid work environment, it might be on video — the value is the same. Don't delay, take action today!