Become a MUCH better leader in 10 steps

Being a better leader in your business or personal life is highly important and attributable to success. Too often people lose sight of their leadership potential. However, it can be retained by following the best principles that leadership employs.

1. Be a good listener!  First a quote from a trusted author: "When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen." - Ernest HemingwayIn order to maintain any good relationship, listening is the greatest foundation. You need to listen to your customers, prospects, friends, workmates, etc. Listening more will help people realize that you don't bloat your importance, you don't be selfish, and that you are open to what they have to say.
2. Be a great storyteller. Let people hear some of your life's work, especially if you can successfully engage their attention. But make sure that you are telling the right stories, ones where people can act on. British author, Karen Armstrong said it well: "Storytelling is fine as long as you can encourage people to act on the stories."
   
   I think she's right on the money there. You don't want to tell stories that are foolish. But, rather, tell stories that reflect wisdom. It's a great way to put ideas to good work.
   

How to implement better banter into your conversations

How many of you want to be a better conversationalist? Well, first, you should check out my previous article posted about being likable. Anyway, here are some tips for better banter to put into your conversations.

1. Don't change the subject, unless it's necessary to do so. When talking with somebody, it's good to maintain the same subject, until it gets dry. Don't change the subject in conversations that are currently open-ended.
   
   For example, if someone says "People say that I'm a good worker" - then don't say "Yeah, I work all the time". Instead of changing the subject (which will imply bad listening), say something about it... "What makes you a good worker?" By doing this, you're implementing a conversation tactic on which they can talk about themselves. Therefore, people will like you a lot more in the end.
2. Be positive, be encouraging. If someone says "my boss doesn't like me", then say uplifting things such as "well, I don't know why...you're smart, neat, and cool!" When you offer up these uplifting words, for example, you'll get a friend real quick, or even maintain your friendship to new heights.