I recently watched a clip of an interview with Oprah Winfrey that resonated with me. Though I cannot speak to her leadership skills, I know that she has accomplished an incredible amount in her career. She has conducted over 3,000 interviews with people from all walks of life. Including those who struggle to make ends meet, billionaires, and even President Obama.
In the interview, Oprah shared that after each interview, her interviewees would always come to her and ask: “Was that okay? How was that? How did I do?”
She concluded that everyone wants to be seen and heard, and that so many of the problems people face in their lives stem from not being noticed.
This realisation struck me as invaluable. I have always believed in treating everyone the same. To recognise and acknowledge every person, regardless of their position or status in life. After all, every person is a human being doing a job. And to me it was always clear that each person deserves to be noticed, heard, and seen.
Recognise the value in each person
Maybe I have always managed to live by this standard. But I realise that it’s not the case in many places. Yet it is an important recognition and skill that can benefit everyone. Recognising the value of each person can make a difference in their lives, and, in turn, can bring benefits back to you as well.
In our world success is often measured by financial or professional achievements. It can be easy to overlook the value of seeing and hearing others. But, as Oprah’s experience shows, this is something that everyone craves, regardless of their background or station in life.
Next time you run your team meeting, think of this experience. Do your team members feel seen and heard. Are there some that lack the confidence to speak but would like to? Are there others who are cut short while they talk?
There may be tasks that need to be completed, maybe you feel some impatience. But if you prioritise creating a team, a culture, than you can’t take a short cut.
So, let us make a conscious effort to recognise and acknowledge everyone we come across. Be it the CEO or the cashier, from the wealthy to the struggling. By doing so, we can make a positive impact in our own lives and in the lives of those around us.
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