Listening to You

This month’s management feature by Donna J. Popow offers six characteristics that make for a great leader, playfully using the acronym “CLAIMS” to do so. It’s a good look at the qualities it takes to be successful, and is a must-read for all managers.

Popow’s letter “L”— “listening”—resonated with me this past month. She says, “[L]istening to what [team members] have to say will lead to consultative discussions and, ultimately, better decisions. Additionally, it reinforces the value of the team member to the organization.” 

I certainly had some listening to do after April's cover story entitled, “Dirty Secrets of Insurance Defense.” Several CLM members wrote in to express their dissatisfaction with the tone of the article. And to be fair, they had a point.

Lost in what was supposed to be a playful piece that created a dialogue is the fact that CLM’s mission is to provide an inclusive, collaborative organization that promotes and furthers the highest standards of claims and litigation management and brings together the thought leaders in both industries. Choosing to focus on the issues between our members and fellows in a negative way, such as we did, runs counter to this goal.

While we seek to provide excellent, useful content for our (team) members and fellows each and every month, I expect to be called on it when you feel otherwise. Please don’t hesitate to do so in the future; you know I’ll be listening.