The Flat Screen

Dead. Nothing. No amount of turning it on and off (which is the height of my mechanical expertise) made any difference. My flat screen TV was now useless. It was not terribly old, but it had enough age on it for me to consider simply trashing it and buying another.

Because it had been a great TV until this point, I decided to do a bit of research on the possibility of repairing the unit. I called a repair service, and before I could finish explaining my dilemma, the gentleman quickly suggested that there was little hope and advised that I trash it and go buy a new one. I almost did just that; however, I called one more repair shop instead…

This repairman listened as I explained my experience of the TV going on the blitz. He asked detailed questions, and then he told me about the high quality of the television that I owned. He encouraged me not to throw away my investment, but instead to allow him to take a look. He explained that my particular unit would be worth saving if we could do it at a reasonable cost.

As I drove to his shop to deliver my TV, I thought about the two phone calls and how I had been influenced in two different directions. The first conversation felt entirely different than the second. I felt helpless and frustrated with the initial call. Conversely, the second conversation left me educated on my TV and with the hope that it could be salvaged.

When we take the time to listen and ask questions, our power of influence significantly rises. When we assume we know all the answers without truly hearing others, we breed frustration.

I may or may not have to buy a new TV. However, I will make the decision with the advice and coaching of a professional who has taken the time to guide and influence my choice. This television repairman is a great example of how effective leaders operate.

Choose to take the time to listen to and understand your team, and you will make a difference!

Dr. Larry Little, CEO