Leadership Lessons: Solomon
Getting more than you asked for is a great outcome because it produces unanticipated benefits. For a leader, this is especially true in regard to influence.
You are getting more than you asked for, including wealth and influence. First Kings 3.13 paraphrase
The Story
The phrase “get more than you asked” often indicates a negative outcome. However, at times, it means second-mile service.
For an impactful leader, who develops listening and discerning skills, the unexpected outcome is greater influence.
Getting More Than You Asked For
So, the first-order outcome is improved decision quality. Whereas, the second-order outcome is more influence. Thus, an impactful leader gains leverage.
Why so? Because their improved listening skills build emotional capital with others.
Additionally, building discernment strengthens the leader’s character. Plus, decisions are more just and ethical. As expected, sound decisions drive wise behavior.
For Solomon, his humility and willingness to ask for help yielded divine multiplication in terms of influence, First Kings 3.14.
So, how did Solomon build influence? Well, by the discerning nature of his decisions.
Now, God promised Solomon wealth and influence. Later, using the Hebrew words God used, Solomon said a precept-driven life produces wealth and influence. For instance, see Proverbs 3.16 and Proverbs 8.18.
Leadership Insight
It’s common for leadership development to focus on improved decision quality, and a propensity for taking action.
Unfortunately, we can fall into the trap of improving listening skills only for the purpose of fact-finding.
Instead, a leader who listens from the heart, begins to discern that which is most impactful.
The leader comes to appreciate the desires, fears, motives, and perceptions of others.
The Value of Insight
But, why is this level of insight so important?
Because it enables an impactful leader to listen deeply, in order to respond with both empathy and directness. Yes, I believe these two can co-exist.
Therefore, the leader finds a way forward that respects the organizational culture. Well, assuming the culture isn’t the problem! Additionally, the leader incorporates existing policy, along with the interpersonal needs of others.
So, interacting with a leader who gets this balance right means you’re getting more than you asked for.
Apply This Today!
Impactful leaders have more to give because they’ve improved their interpersonal skills.
Leadership influence comes after getting the fundamentals correct.
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