Workplace Communication ? 5 Keys to Listening Like a Leader to ...

Workplace Communication ? 5 Keys to Listening Like a Leader to Avoid Misunderstandings

Workplace communication that results in a misunderstanding is often the result of poor listening habits. Establishing yourself as a leader (no matter your position) and a good communicator is more than just what you say and how you say it-it is understanding when you need to be quiet and pay attention to what others are saying. Short attention spans, numerous distractions, prejudging and well, pitiful manners are just a few reasons why you and your co-workers may be poor listeners. The best communicators know the power of conscious listening.

Here are five ways to stand out as a leader and make listening work for you:

1. Decide to listen with both your body and your mind. This means to relax your body while keeping attentive. Unconscious foot tapping or finger drumming sends a message of impatience. Sit or stand quietly while leaning in towards the speaker. Now clear your mind of unconscious distractions, e.g. judging before listening or thinking about how you are going to respond or letting your emotions take precedence over the message being conveyed. Focus on just listening.

2. Put your full attention on what the other person is saying. This is not always easy to do, in fact, it can be quite difficult. Actually being present to the words, the intention, intonation and body language to glean a complete picture takes discipline and conscious thought. Communication is not one-sided and the responsible listener practices fully attentive and active listening.

3. Match the pace of the person you are listening to. Don?t jump in to finish sentences or ?help? complete a thought at the first sign of a pause. Allow the speaker to process his or her thoughts as they search for the best words to express themselves. Give people time to say what they are going to say.

4. Pay attention to both the visible and invisible messages. Observe body language that is not consistent with words. Notice whether his or her stance is confident or hesitant. Look for nervous habits such as hand wringing or nail picking. Simply notice how these gestures compare with the spoken words. Also pay attention to what you can not see. Consider what outside distractions, situations or emotional issues may be coloring the message your boss, staff, or co-worker may be sending. Put all the pieces together to gain better understanding of the real message before responding.

5. Be an interested and responsive listener. Show your engagement with the speaker by nodding and smiling appropriately. Ask short clarifying questions and make brief affirming comments. Paraphrase back what you have heard to confirm understanding. Be respectful just as you would want others to be when you are speaking.

Take responsibility for being a powerful communicator and you?ll find just how quickly others will follow your lead.

Tags: Avoid, Communication, Keys, Leader, Like, Listening, Misunderstandings, Workplace

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