During a two-day training course, Ben noticed that conversations about different leadership challenges kept returning to the same point: get to know your people.
In this episode, he explores why that simple practice matters. Spending time with people and observing how they work can help you recognise changes in their behaviour, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and adapt to their personal style.
Ben also explains how showing an interest in others can build trust and connection, making it easier for people to speak up and for you to have the conversations your team needs.
Key points
Spend time with people and observe how they usually behave, so you can notice when something changes.
Look for changes from a person's usual behaviour rather than assuming a single gesture has a fixed meaning.
Understand both strengths and weaknesses: use strengths when delegating and help reduce the impact of areas where people struggle.
Ask simple questions about what people enjoy, what stresses them and where they need support.
Notice personal preferences and tailor your approach, including how you recognise contributions or begin conversations.
Treat personality assessments as useful prompts for understanding, rather than perfect descriptions of a person.
Showing interest in people can reduce the perception that you are focused only on your own goals.
Trust and connection can help people share ideas and concerns, and make accountability conversations easier.
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