How To Be A Great Listener In The Workplace

One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say. 

Bryant H. McGill

Have you ever caught yourself thinking what you're going to respond? When do you realize that you haven’t heard what the other person was saying? You were not listening; it’s time to learn how.  I am sure that when you are having a conversation with a client, you want them to listen tentatively. It can be annoying when you are saying something significant, and the other person jumps right into another conversation about themselves without even acknowledging what you just said.  

I have to admit that I have caught myself saying, “oh no what did she just say?” Then I’ve gone into panic mode and try to fix it.  The moment is gone, and if I didn’t practice active listening, it’s game over. I soon realized that I had to pay more attention and learn how to listen.  I now consider myself the best listener there is because I practice the art of listening. Every person that I come in contact with is important to me, and I am looking forward to what they have to say.  

We need to retrain ourselves and learn how to listen.  The benefits of practicing active listening in the workplace are that it boosts your self-confidence because now you are part of an actual conversation.  Also, you practice being in the present moment and become more focused. You develop your real ability to grow and connect on a deeper level.

If you find yourself having a hard time listening, below, you will see five simple steps that helped me become a better listener.  Hope it will help you become a better listener too.

Have Time

We are all busy, and If you are in a hurry let the other person know.  It is better to get back to them when you know you can take the time to listen.  And it is better for you because you won’t have to stop what you are doing and run the risk of being late.  It’s a win/win.

Eye Contact

Keep eye contact.  If your eyes are wandering around the other person will feel that you are not listening.  To improve this what I do is that I focus on keeping eye contact, It takes practice, I suggest to start little by little. Be aware that you are maintaining eye contact.  

Don’t Interrupt

Have you ever tried to finish the other person's sentence? I think we have all done it, but it is annoying.  It’s not a race; you are just having a conversation. The way to stop yourself is to be attentive to the other person's thought process. It takes practice, but it is worth it in the end. Stop interrupting by jumping in and interrupting.

Engage

Ask questions don’t read minds. By asking questions, you start to have a compelling dialog.  Keep the conversation going by being interested. Always summarize what the other person just said, that keeps you focused on the story and helped you retain relevant information.

Be Genuine

Find the space in your heart to care what the other person is telling you.  By showing that you are genuine, it helps you grow as a person. I am one that likes to reach out to people all the time, and I genuinely care when I ask how they are doing, it boils down to this one crucial thing, that we all care in one shape or form for one another.  

In summary, nothing worthwhile comes easy.  And it is useful to have a meaningful conversation. Start practicing and watch yourself grow in the process.  Have a fantastic day. I invite you to have a discovery conversation with me. Email me today.

Until next week,

Coach Barb

Certified Career Coach

Do you struggle with active listening?