How can the practice of active listening help individuals become better leaders in their personal and professional lives, and what specific techniques can be employed to develop this skill effectively?

Active listening can help individuals become better leaders by fostering stronger relationships, improving communication, and increasing empathy and understanding. Specific techniques to develop this skill effectively include maintaining eye contact, asking clarifying questions, paraphrasing to show understanding, and providing feedback to demonstrate engagement and attentiveness. By actively listening to others, leaders can build trust, resolve conflicts, and make more informed decisions in both personal and professional settings.