Making the most at your workplace with Diana Keith
Listen While You Work
Great listening skills can be used as a powerful business tool to gain understanding of your people and customers, build strong relationships, and move forward toward valuable results.
Assess your own skills by asking your people or peers.
When is the last time you heard someone at your workplace say, "Hey Marty, how are my listening skills?" You may be surprised at how they respond.
Who’s the best listener you know?
I started thinking about the best listener I know. In my experience, I'd say that some of the best listeners have to be hair stylists. My stylist, Ray, (Not his real name) is an excellent listener.
Let's look at Ray’s listening techniques…
Listening techniques you need to know:
Use these nine strategic listening techniques... Learn to benefit from Other People’s Wisdom.
1. Paraphrase and clarify for understanding... Actively listen.
2. Be open and provide your full attention.
3. Do not assume.
4. Consider another’s point of view and take time to reflect.
5. Don't judge.
6. Don't interrupt.
7. Maintain consistent eye contact and positive body language.
8. Don't plan your thoughts while others are speaking... Listen instead of waiting to talk.
9. Consider whether someone is looking for a solution or just needs empathy and understanding, then respond accordingly.
How do your listening skills measure up?
Give yourself one point for every listening technique above that you use on a consistent basis.
Perfect score:
If you scored a nine, you are an expert listener and I challenge you to assist those within your team to reach the same skill level.
Six or better:
Over a six, BRAVO, you're on your way!
Under three:
Those below three may need to put these listening techniques in place ASAP to start reaping the benefits of Other People's Wisdom.
Your Next Step
Step One:
Assess listening skills in your organization or team.
- How can you build a work culture that includes strategic listening?
Step Two:
Introduce the idea of strategic listening to your team, peers, and supervisors.
- Get their feedback and ideas on how you can get started!
Finally, put a plan of action in place to get to the next level.
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