Listen to Understand The most influential leaders I've served with had one thing in common… they listened more than they spoke.

After 34 years in uniform, I've come to believe that listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills. Not listening so you can respond… listening so you can understand. The leaders who made the greatest impact on me didn't have all the answers. They asked thoughtful questions. They sought different perspectives. They created an environment where people felt heard, valued, and respected. Too often we're preparing our response before the other person has even finished speaking. Leadership isn't about waiting for your turn to talk… it's about being genuinely curious. It's about understanding someone's story before offering your own. That lesson has served me just as well in transition out of uniform, as it did when I was in. I only wish I had learned earlier in my career. Whether I'm meeting with a transitioning SOTF Fellow, a business leader, a donor, or a strategic partner, I've learned that the most meaningful conversations begin with sincere questions, not polished answers. I've also discovered something else. People rarely remember exactly what you said, they remember how you made them feel. Did they feel heard? Did they feel respected? Did they feel like they mattered? At SOTF, we see the power of listening every day. Coaches listening to Fellows. Alumni sharing experiences with those walking the same path. Employers seeking to understand the unique value Special Operators bring to their organizations. Donors listening to the incredible stories that remind them why this mission matters. Those conversations build trust, and trust builds relationships. Leadership isn't measured by how much people hear from you… it's measured by how well people feel heard BY you. Without question, one of the greatest gifts we can give another person isn't our advice… it's our attention. Listen to them… listen to understand. Keith Pritchard Director of Development SOTF Alum