No one has ever cared what I think. Do you really mean you want my ideas and opinions?
Of course, Karen. I need your help. You matter to me and this project.
I enjoy working with you, Karen.
We make a great team!
Tears started to well up in her eyes. I knew I had said something wrong but her reply stunned me.
What happened to Karen? She's so different now. What did you do???
I felt relieved.
I listened to her.
From that point on, Karen and I had a great partnership.
Important Project Update: The problem wasn’t Karen. The problem was she didn't feel heard, valued or acknowledged. Pay attention to what’s important to each person and you’ll get their full commitment and engagement.
Over the next six months, others would stop me and inquire about the positive changes they observed in her. They all had the same question.
My answer was simple.
Karen taught me an important lesson. When you are building a team, put your judgements on hold and try to learn all you can about your team member. It’s amazing what you’ll learn.