Successful leaders often harness simple yet transformative habits that set them apart. One such habit, which may seem trivial but is profoundly impactful, is the art of taking notes. This practice isn’t confined to classrooms; it’s a secret weapon for top business leaders. Let’s delve into why note-taking is essential and what we can glean from some of the world’s most illustrious leaders.
Richard Branson’s Notebook Obsession
Richard Branson, the maverick founder of the Virgin Group, swears by his notebook. He’s never without it, declaring, “If you don’t take note, your ideas get lost.” For Branson, every encounter and every experience is a learning opportunity, reinforcing the timeless adage that ‘knowledge is power.’
The Power of Note-Taking
Taking notes ensures you remember the finer details, not just the overarching themes of a discussion. This means you can revisit and act on important points without relying on your memory alone. In the bustling world of mortgage advice, where multitasking is the norm, having detailed notes can be a real game-changer.
Building Trust and Ensuring Accuracy
Note-taking also cultivates trust with clients and colleagues. Consider how you feel when a waiter memorises your order without writing it down—it’s impressive but risky. In business, noting down what your clients say shows you value their input and significantly reduces the risk of errors.
The Debate: Digital vs. Manual Note-Taking
Today’s technology offers myriad tools for electronic note-taking on phones, laptops, or tablets. However, research suggests that manual note-taking with pen and paper leads to deeper cognitive processing and better retention of conceptual information. Moreover, during meetings, writing notes by hand signals attentiveness and engagement, whereas typing on a device can be distracting and may be perceived as inattentive or rude.
Focus on Your Audience
Top leaders exhibit behaviours that enhance their effectiveness, and one such habit is keeping mobile phones off the desk during meetings. Notifications can be distracting, even on silent mode, and a visible phone might signal that your attention is divided.
Research indicates that 84% of people find it inappropriate to write texts or emails during work meetings, and high-income professionals generally disapprove of smartphone use in such settings. Thus, keeping your phone out of sight demonstrates respect and attentiveness to your clients.
Key Takeaways for Mortgage Advisors
- Engage with Your Audience: Make eye contact and actively listen to your clients. Show that you value their input by taking notes with a pen and paper.
- Minimise Distractions: Keep your mobile phone out of sight during meetings to show your clients that they are your top priority.
- Adopt Effective Habits: Experiment with these practices to see what works best for you and your business.
Incorporating these simple habits can enhance your professional interactions, build trust, and improve your effectiveness as a mortgage advisor. Remember, the small things often make the biggest difference.
Sources
- Virgin.com (2019) Why Everyone Should Take Notes. Available at: Virgin (Accessed 18th Jan 2022)
- Sage Journals (2014) The Pen is Mightier Than The Keyboard: Advantages of Longhand Over Laptop Note Taking. Available at: Sage Journals (Accessed 18th Jan 2022)
- Cegos (2014) Smartphone Etiquette: Do you use your phone in a meeting? Available at: Cegos (Accessed 18th Jan 2022)
Take these insights from leaders and make them your own. Embrace the art of note-taking and watch your business flourish.
