Listening or Speaking?
April 2nd, 2007 by Kate Carleton
Are you listening to what people say? Do you think you know what they will say? The foundation of leadership and relationships lies in the ability to listen. Are you fast paced and leap ahead of their thoughts? Do you jump around conversations or interrupt others? Most leaders are strong D’s on the DISC assessment scale, and therefore, fast paced, results driven, decision makers. So, how do you slow down and really listen to what people are saying? Quick Tips for Improving Listening Skills:
- Turn the Blackberry off!!! Fact is: you can’t really listen and scroll messages.
- Listen for the needs of the speaker. What is their underlying need? What is the emotion behind the request or statement?
- Take notes while they are speaking. It keeps you focused on their thoughts during meetings and phone conversations.
- Ask- “What is most important to you?” Clarify issues and needs, rather than get off track when many people on a call or in a meeting.
Try these proven listening tips and let me know what worked for you.
~ Kate ~