eight steps to lively listening
Leaders inspire their teams by showing that they care. One of the most important ways leading communicators show they care is by listening – really listening – to what people have to say. (There's a reason we have two ears and one mouth.)
When managers make an effort to listen to employees, they see the benefits in terms of commitment and positive relationships that make an organization successful.
It's not just about inviting employees. It's also about proving that you value that input by taking action.
T.To create a culture where people believe their contribution will be valued, you need to facilitate dialogue. Managers need to set the tone, set expectations for the entire organization, and model active listening.
Here are 8 steps to becoming an active listener:
1. Approach each dialogue with the aim of learning something.
Think of the person as someone who can teach you.
2. Stop speaking and focus carefully on the speaker.
Ditch the urge to think about what to say next, or multitask.
3. Open and transfer the conversation.
Open up and lead the conversation with broad, open-ended questions such as “What other strategic alternatives have you considered?” Or “How do you introduce yourself?”. Avoid closed questions that can only be answered with “yes” or “yes”. No."
4. Drill down to the details.
Go into the details by asking the policy specific questions that put the conversation first, such as: B. "Tell me more about …" "How did you come to this conclusion?" or "How would that work?"
5. Summarize what you hear and ask questions to test your understanding.
Questions like "If I understand you …" or "Tell me if you say that …"
6. Encourage with positive feedback.
If you find that a speaker is having trouble making a point or is not confident, encourage them to show your interest with a smile, a nod, or a positive question.
7. Pay attention to the overall meaning.
Understand that the actual message, in addition to what is being said, can be non-verbal or emotional. Body language verification is one way to gain true understanding.
8. Pay attention to your answers.
Remember that the way you answer a question is also part of the dialogue. Be open and respect the other person's point of view, even if you disagree.
How will these active listening steps help foster dialogue in your culture?
– –David Grossman
How well do you really listen This free one-sided quiz asks 10 questions (which must be answered honestly by someone other than you) that contain clues as to whether or not you are a good listener. Take it today … the results may only surprise you.
