Less than 2% of all professionals have had formal education or learning to understand and improve listening skills and techniques.
With those stats, it is understandable why many of us don’t do well at it. This is unfortunate because leaders who excel in listening have a stronger chance of creating trustworthy relationships which in turn increases the chance of team success. Without this gift of listening, it is difficult for any leader to really know what is troubling an employee, how to provide proper support, or how to pull them out of a performance rut.
Listening goes beyond direct eye contact and not interrupting. To do it well, it takes keen attention to facial expressions, body language, and mood. Those who embrace the art of listening are destined to be in a better position to lead better and smarter.
During a recent team building session with a client, the group brainstormed different ways of listening better. Review their brainstorming ideas on what enables better listening.
What happens when you don’t listen?
- You don’t understand what is going on
- Issues escalate
- Issues don’t get solved
- Resentment builds
- Relationships crumble
- Trust decreases
- Demotivation occurs
How can I listen effectively?
- Remain open and remove any pre-determined decisions
- Get rid of all distractions
- Maintain eye contact
- Focus on listening actively
- Make the talker feel as they matter
- Respect confidentiality
- Allow the talker to share their ideas
- Don’t interrupt
- Share positive reinforcement
- Commit the time to listen
- Paraphrase messages heard
- Summarize key points
- Take notes to help remembrance
- Ask questions to help clarify points
- Be patient
- Monitor your tone when asking questions, paraphrasing, or summarizing
- Take time to reflect on what is being said
To be a more effective listener, you can also learn more from the International Listening Association at http://listen.org/.
Listening well is difficult but employees respect a leader that does it well.
Can you think of other ways to be a better listener? Comment below and share your ideas.
Gezil andrews
Create a listening environment. Holding an employee performance appraisal or confidential discussion on any issue doesn’t belong at the “community table” at the local coffee shop.