Listening is one of the most important skills you can learn to do more effectively. Many of us do not realize what a huge impact “being a good listener” can have on our career, our productivity and most importantly how we relate to people throughout the work day.
How are your listening skills? Being a good listener is a must in all occupations but especially if you are a sales professional where knowing the customer’s need is the key to your success. By becoming a better listener, you will improve your ability to influence, persuade and negotiate which impacts your well-being. What’s more, you’ll avoid conflict and misunderstandings. All of these are necessary for workplace success!
What does this mean to you? You will need to “listen” and actively engage yourself to understand the complete message that is being communicated. Here some tips to help you become an “active” listener in the workplace:
Avoid distractions – Sometimes this is difficult, especially when there is a lot happening around you. The key is to focus on the persons face, eyes, and mouth. It is normal for your mind to wander but by focusing on the face, this will help you to listen. A helpful way to maintain focus is to mentally repeat in your head what they are saying. This can help reinforce their message and you may find yourself naturally interested again!
Acknowledge the message – This can be done with a simple nod or a simple response to a statement. Using body language and other signs to acknowledge you are listening also reminds you to pay attention and not to let your mind wander.
Affirm and respond – Once they know that you are listening, it is good to ask an occasional question or comment on what has been said. This not only keeps you on your toes but will allow them to expand upon an area of information that you are interested in as well.
Follow these guidelines to being an “active listener,” and you will not only become a better communicator, but will also develop better and more productive relationships.
The R2R Marketing team has provided a Tip Sheet for you to read and to share with your coworkers!
