Headphones and Leadership

Just a quick pet peeve of mine today:

Do you want to listen to music while you work, or do you want to be a leader? Headphones are the work equivalent of a Do Not Disturb sign. If you want to be a leader, you have to be accessible and approachable. When no one feels that they can ask you questions or seek advice, who exactly are you leading?

Save the headphones for the few times that you’re on a deadline and have to be heads down. Otherwise, leave the headphones in the bag to foster team communication and collaboration.