When people think about the greatest leadership traits, they often list qualities like vision, decisiveness, confidence, and communication.  But there is one attribute that does not often make the top of the list — yet it is one of the most powerful skills any leader can possess.

That superpower as described on pages 159-160 of Craig Custance’s outstanding new book The Franchise: The Business Of Building Winning Teams – Active listening.

Jim Rutherford, a three-time Stanley Cup-winning general manager, has built a Hall of Fame career not just on his hockey knowledge but on his ability to listen.  His assistant general manager with the Vancouver Canucks, Cammi Granato, described his leadership this way: “I love working for Jim.  Every day you learn something.  There’s a greatness about him.  It’s this aura. … Active listening.  He’s very selective with his words.”

Rutherford’s ability to listen — to truly hear his staff, coaches, and players — sets him apart.  It is a lesson every leader should take to heart.  Here is why active listening is a game-changer in leadership and how you can implement it today.

Before getting to the benefits of active listening, I cannot recommend enough you get Custance’s book.  Click HERE or on the image provided and purchase.  The principles will make you a better leader and improve your organization.

3 Benefits of the Leadership Superpower Few People Ever Acknowledge or Discuss

The following are three benefits of the leadership superpower few people ever acknowledge or discuss:

1. Listening Builds Trust and Respect

One of the fastest ways to earn trust and respect as a leader is to make people feel heard.  When Jim Rutherford enters a conversation, he is not dominating the room with his opinions.  Instead, he listens intently, making those around him feel valued and respected.

Head coach Mike Sullivan, who worked with Rutherford, noted: “That’s the one thing I’ve tried to learn from Jim and apply with my coaches now — having conversations and framing them in a way that allows people to speak their minds and listen.  You get valuable insights from other people around you when you have that modus operandi.”

Leaders who listen well create a culture where people feel comfortable sharing ideas, concerns, and solutions.  When people feel heard, they are more engaged, more motivated, and more willing to go the extra mile.

2. Listening Creates Smarter Decisions

In leadership, knowledge is power — but you do not gain knowledge by always talking.  Rutherford understands that by listening more than he speaks, he gathers critical information that allows him to make better, more informed decisions.

Craig Custance observed Rutherford’s approach: “During these conversations (about hockey), he might offer a quick thought to spur the debate or let the coaches know of a player who might be available on the trade market.  But mostly, he was there to get the pulse of the team.”

Rutherford’s leadership style is not about dictating but about gathering intelligence.  He knows that when he asks great questions and then listens, he gains insights that others might miss — insights that lead to better strategies and smarter moves.

3. Listening Is Strengthened By Asking Great Questions

Jim Rutherford’s leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it is about asking the right questions and truly hearing the responses.  That is what separates good leaders from great ones.

Great leaders do not just give direction — they create an environment where others feel empowered.  When leaders listen, they foster a culture of collaboration.  They make their team members feel like partners, not just employees.

Conclusion

Active listening may not be the flashiest leadership trait, but it is one of the most effective.  If you want to build trust, make smarter decisions, and strengthen your team culture, take a lesson from Jim Rutherford.

Talk less. Listen more. Lead better.

Whether you lead a sports organization, business, church, or non-profit, I cannot recommend enough you get Custance’s book.  Click HERE or on the image below and purchase.  The principles will make you a better leader and improve your organization.