Tag Archives: Leadership

The Great Communicator: Michael Jackson

I got a tweet from André Rieu, the well-known violinist and Johann Strauss Orchestra conductor. He was aghast at Michael Jackson’s deathand felt what many did of course. Because André is a musician and performer, however, he felt an especially profound loss. So am I and thus, so did I. Jackson was a prodigious talent and his effect on culture is permanent. As Obi-wan said, “I felt a great disturbance in The Force.” Continue reading The Great Communicator: Michael Jackson

Listening: The Most Important – And Most Neglected – Communication Skill

This past Sunday, The New York Times Business Section contained an interesting interview with James J. Schiro, CEO of Zurich Financial Services. I had just completed most of this newsletter, so the first question and answer were perfectly timed:

Q. What is the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

A. It’s the ability to listen, and to make people understand that you are listening to them. Make   them feel that they are making a contribution. Continue reading Listening: The Most Important – And Most Neglected – Communication Skill