I recently had my first yearly performance evaluation after being promoted to floor supervisor.  My boss gave me a lot of good feedback but I scored really low in how well I listen.  I really like this job and was hoping to continue to move up the ladder, so how can I become a better listener?

It could be said that most workers receive half of their paycheck for listening but many can’t say they are good listeners.  In fact, poor listening can be cited as the cause for many problems and costly mistakes in the workplace.  While we hear with our ears, listening requires far more than our auditory systems to be in working order.  Try these tips to improve your ability to listen effectively.

Be present.  The biggest cause of poor listening is failure to fully concentrate on what the other person is saying.  Effective listening requires your full attention.  Eliminate distractions, like the computer screen and the work on your desk, and avoid interruptions.  Find a quiet, private place in which to have important conversations or to get complex information.

Listen fully before formulating your response.  Good listening means trying to see the situation the way the speaker sees it and you can’t do this while formulating your questions or rehearsing in your mind what you are going to say next.  Waiting to hear the entire message without interrupting also enables the speaker to stay focused, eliminating missed information and unnecessary questioning.

Take notes.  Most people remember only a small amount of what they hear within a short time after hearing it.  Note-taking is an excellent listening tool, especially when it’s important to listen without interrupting or you are being given complex information.

Clarify what you’ve heard.  When the speaker has finished, restate in your own words your understanding of the message.  This allows the speaker to clarify misunderstandings and helps to draw out more information.  Then you can ask appropriate questions to fill in any gaps.

Build your listening skills with training.  Sign up for a workshop or encourage your employer to provide in-house training so that everyone can improve their listening skills.  Look for training from people who practice what they teach - like mediators - that provides the opportunity to practice the skills you are learning, with feedback.  And then make sure to apply your new skills at every opportunity – remember, “practice makes perfect”.

With skill building and effort, anyone can become a better listener.

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