A Reminder From Talk Show Host — Larry King

This is the first of a three-part series of meaningful reminders from recently retired talk show host, Larry King.  Think about it, and stay tuned for Part Two.

Think about the other person (and show empathy). If you do the kind of work that requires you to interact and establish good working relationships with a wide variety of people, you’re not going to get far if you cling to fixed ideas, showcase your own worldview, or become prickly when provoked. King has found success by practicing a combination of empathy and impartiality. “There isn’t a soul who won’t talk to you if you are sincerely interested in that person. But you have to create empathy.

What is it like to step on a stage? What is it like to be known by everybody? What is it like to run a company? You could just as well say, ‘Your company lost a lot of money last year – what the hell’s wrong?’ But confrontation never works for me. Even if I have a guest on the show whose views are contrary to mine, he’s the guest.”