Actually Quote by Brad D. Smith
“I'd say the best way to train someone is to remember that you have two ears and one mouth, and use them in that ratio. That's hard to do, and ultimately what we've learned is how many false positives you get from listening to what someone says they're going to do instead of observing what they actually do.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Leadership Insights, Brad D. Smith, 2020
Effective communication requires listening twice as much as speaking, focusing on observed actions rather than promises.
In simple terms: Listen more, speak less, act on what you see.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize listening and observation.
Themes
communication
leadership
training
feedback
observation
Mood
reflective
practical
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- coaching sessions
- performance reviews
- customer feedback
- project debriefs
Key Concepts
active listening
behavioral verification
learning loops
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you encourage honest observation?
- What habits improve listening ratios?
A Different Perspective
People may resist honest feedback, limiting observation.
