The Art of Listening

Posted by: Darlene Duncan CWDP, JSS, CCC Training Coordinator

Whether it’s your boss, your child, a co-worker or your significant other listening is important and most of us do a lousy job of it. I can hear you already. You’re thinking, “What’s she talking about I’m a good listener?” We all want to think we’re good listeners however, the reality is that most of the time, we (and yes I include myself in that ‘we’) are thinking of our response before the person talking is even half way finished. This is not good listening. What does it take to be a good listener? 1. First, pay attention to not only the words being spoken but the body language of the speaker. 2. When the speaker finishes, take a few moments to process what you think you heard. 3. Next, in your own words, tell the speaker what you think they said. 4. Once you and the speaker agree on what the speaker said, you can formulate a response. Listening is a valuable skill on the job and in life in general. Communication, or rather miscommunication is the source of most relationship problems from parent to child, subordinate to boss. Friendships have been destroyed and jobs lost over miscommunication. Practicing good listening habits will help you in all aspects of your life. Think about it before you go on that next interview.