Richard Branson: Strong Leaders Are Good Listeners The Virgin Group founder attributes his success to being open to all possibilities.

By Nina Zipkin

When thinking about the most important qualities of great leaders, one might think of being able to inspire others, the ability to delegate, having problem-solving skills, you name it. But when asked by an Entrepreneur reader about how to stand out as a leader, acclaimed Virgin Group founder Richard Branson offered something different.

To be a great leader, and to be successful, one must be a good listener.

Related: For Better Conversations, Replace 'How Are You?' With This One Phrase

"If you want to stand out as a leader, a good place to begin is by listening," he said. The best teams and bosses pay attention and value the other's perspective.

"Great listeners are often terrific at uncovering and putting in place strategies and plans that have a big impact," Branson continued. Being able to provide encouragement to aspiring business leaders has been invaluable because those conversations spark his ideas, too, he said.

For more advice from Branson, check out the video above.

Related: SBA Chief: The Secret to Being a Good Boss Is Being a Good Cheerleader

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

Nina Zipkin is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com. She frequently covers leadership, media, tech, startups, culture and workplace trends.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Side Hustle

After a 12-Year-Old's Side Hustle Made Over $4,000 in 1 Day, He and His Dad Grew the Business to Nearly $50,000 a Month: 'It Takes Commitment'

Madden Forrest and his father, Steven, turned their passion for football into a lucrative business.

Business News

Investment Firm CEO Tells Thousands in Conference Audience That 60% of Them Will Be 'Looking for Work' Next Year

There were over 5,500 people at SuperReturn International 2025, making it the largest private equity event in the world.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

Here Are the 10 Highest-Paying Jobs For New Graduates With a Bachelor's Degree — and They All Start at Six Figures

According to a new report from Resume Genius, finding a high-paying job as a new grad is possible, even in this market.

Business Solutions

Discover How AI Can Transform the Way You Work With This $20 E-Degree

Learn how to make AI work for you with the ChatGPT and Automation E-Degree, now for just $20.

Business News

Is AI the Reason for Your Layoff? New York Becomes the First State to Require Companies to Disclose If So.

It's the first official statewide move towards understanding AI's effect on the labor market.