Aug 2000

Do you really listen to your employees? Just letting them talk is not listening. Being a good listener requires continual practice but there are some things you can quickly do to improve your listening skills.

1. Put your work away. The second an employee walks into your office, put whatever you’re working on or anything else that might divert your attention up. Pay complete attention to what the employee has to say.

2. Don’t interrupt. One of the first (and rudest) signs that you’re not listening is cutting the speaker off mid-sentence. Always make sure the worker has finished speaking before you do.

3. Smile and lean forward. This tells the employee you are listening to every word they say.

4. Ask questions. Questions make it clear you’re listening and interested in what is being said.

5. Begin your comments by paraphrasing what the employee has said. Not only does this indicate you’ve been listening, it helps you clarify the issues mentally before speaking.