You can improve listening habits to enhance your listening to have a positive impact on communication in the workplace.
1. Plan to have adequate time so that you can fully attend to the speaker without multitasking.
2. Listen with a positive, encouraging, and open-minded attitude.
3. Control distractions by holding meetings in quiet environments and away from telephones. Ignore distractions that cannot be eliminated.
4. Listen attentively to the listener so that you can interpret, evaluate, and respond appropriately. Have a notepad ready to jot down ideas rather than interrupting the speaker.
5. Try to acknowledge the speaker's content by nodding your head and periodically summarize or paraphrase your understanding of what has been stated. This strategy allows you to clarify the message and avoid future misunderstandings.
6. During the conversation, ask the speaker to clarify the message if you find it vague or unclear.
7. You can learn more about the discussed subject by asking open-ended questions.
8. Maintain consistent eye contact. If listening on the phone, try to visualize the speaker in your mind.
9. Listen for the whole meaning, including feelings as well as information.
10. Contact a speech-language pathologist who specializes in training to enhance business communication. Valued employees may benefit from specialized training to help them communicate more effectively with customers, staff, and colleagues.