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Jo Ellen knows what works with employees and what makes the leader's job more difficult than it has to be. She also understands that busy leaders need a quick, easy-to-read leadership resource to enhance their effectiveness and lead them to success. A Dog’s Advice to Leaders is just such a resource.

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Why Do People Skills Matter?

December 2nd, 2008 • Related • Filed Under

People skills matter for many reasons.  Perhaps the most important reason is that people are more likely to follow a leader with people skills.  In addition, they’ll give the man – or woman – with people skills the benefit of the doubt.  Having and using people skills is like putting money in the bank.  When you need it, it’s there.
The stories of two recent bosses of mine make the point clear.  One of them, a woman, was a “nice” person when she wasn’t in her leadership role – interesting and fun to talk to, though not a particularly good listener.  But when it came time to lead, she had her own agenda that she didn’t always share.  She didn’t delegate, but instead tried to do everything and attend every meeting, herself.  Her opinions mattered, yours did not.  And when credit was due, she took it – for herself.
I did not enjoy working for this woman – and frequently felt as though my contributions were not appreciated.
The other leader – my current boss – is also busy, and sometimes has trouble delegating.  He tends to be out-of-pocket rather frequently as a result.  But he listens attentively when you talk to him, and his answers show that he respects your opinions.  When credit is due, he makes sure you get it.  He’s a joke-teller – and his jokes are actually funny.
If either of these leaders needs my engagement, which one is most likely to get it?  The current one, of course.  His people skills have made me want to follow his lead.

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