Leadership gets a great deal of attention in the workplace today. Everyone's talking about leadership, what it is, what it isn't, and how can we get some fast.

An outstanding leader does many things right, but perhaps one of the most important is the skill of active listening. Leaders understand that continual learning is critical to the future of their organizations. Leaders understand that they're only truly learning when they're listening to others.

Now that sounds easy. But just as effective leaders have the vision to see things most others don't, they also listen in a way that allows them to understand things most of us miss.

How do we become better listeners? In my work with organizational leaders, I've found that listening comes easiest to those who have a keen sense of curiosity and interest in other people. It's a mindset of "What can I learn from this person?" rather than "How can I impress this person?" They ask a lot of questions and listen with empathy to understand the emotion behind the thinking. They ask "What do you think?" and "Why do you feel that way?" and "How would you approach this problem?" In every instance, they're learning something from the respondent. Beyond that, they're building relationships with people. Nothing feels better than being listened to. Effective leaders know the value giving others a voice.

Being curious sets the learning cycle in motion. When we're curious about and interested in people, we tend to ask more questions. When we ask questions, we listen more. And it's only when we're listening, that we're learning and growing.

Practice the skill of being curious and interested in others. As a result, your listening and leadership skills will flourish.