In my last post (are you really listening) I discussed how important listening is as a leader. It’s important to be attentive, but listening also goes beyond the audible.
Both verbal and non-verbal cues are important to listening.
- Make sure to hold eye contact.
- Pay attention to both your own facial expressions and those of the speaker—what do these expressions convey? Boredom? Interest?
- Note both your own posture and the posture of the speaker.
If you take the time to think about whether you’re really listening, and identify how you can listen better you will improve mutual respect across your team, facilitate effective decision making, and cultivate an environment within which teamwork thrives.
