Listening: The superpower of effective leaders
Good listening is a critical skill for any leader. It enables us to recognize others’ perspectives, expands our scope of understanding and awareness, and helps build trust. It signals to team members that their thoughts matter and it’s safe to share ideas. It also requires commitment and constant attention. Despite this, listening is rarely taught and even less frequently coached. Learn why listening is such an important building block to better workplace cultures, increased team member engagement and empowerment, and improved retention. Come away with strategies to reinforce and enhance your listening skills.
This session originally was presented at AVMA’s 2025 Veterinary Leadership Conference.
Learning objectives:
- Understand the difference between listening and hearing.
- Identify the three components of active listening.
- Differentiate the four distinct listening styles and when each should be used.
- Assess the nine skills that can be used to increase listening effectiveness.
- Recognize what prevents leaders from being good listeners, and learn how you can listen more effectively.
Dr. Wendy Hauser has practiced in the veterinary profession for more than 35 years as an associate, practice owner, and relief veterinarian. She also has worked in the animal health industry as a pet health insurance executive and technical services veterinarian. She is passionate about education and innovation, and as the founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting she consults with industry partners (established, startup, and early-stage) and individual veterinary hospitals. She is a regular presenter at veterinary conferences, where she facilitates workshops on hospital culture, communication, leadership, and professional development. She is co-author of “The Veterinarian’s Guide to Healthy Pet Plans” and has served as a member of the AVMA Veterinary Economics Strategy Committee.
Dr. Hauser lives in the Denver metro area with her husband Edmond and their black Lab Oliver. She has two grown children.