Book excerpt: Listening well is an essential component of good leadership. You can become a more effective listener and leader by learning the skills of active listening. Working relationships become more solid, based on trust, respect, and honesty. Active listening is not an optional component of leadership; it is not a nicety to be used to make others feel good. It is, in fact, a critical component of the tasks facing today's leaders. In this new edition, we've added tips and advice dealing with virtual active listening, and incorporated up-to-date research from both inside and outside CCL to make sure you can best meet the leadership challenges you face in today's world.