To avoid the pitfalls of inadequate listening, leaders can adopt several strategies: - Active Listening: This involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said. - Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage team members to share more by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. - Provide Feedback: Show that you are listening by summarizing what has been said and providing thoughtful feedback. - Non-Verbal Communication: Pay attention to body language and other non-verbal cues to fully understand the speaker's message. - Create a Listening Culture: Encourage a culture where listening is valued and practiced by everyone in the organization.