It’s not an either-or type of thing, - Carla Harris

One of the most valuable things you can do as an influential leader is to listen, because people will always tell you what they value and what they want. When you know that, you can deliver—and then you can make the sale.

I'm self-aware enough that when I walk into that Birmingham board room, I know I have to be able to connect with those men so they will hear me," she said. "It's about speaking and showing up in a way that your listeners will hear you, embrace you and act upon what you say.

Say 'I see you,' and invite them to join the conversation. Everyone values being heard."