The ability to listen has a major impact on employee confidence and motivation. Therefore it is one of the key leadership skills. The problem is that in practice there is often a direct correlation between the level of a function and the need to dominate discussions. Managers cease to listen, break in others! speeches and finally speak for them. They do not realize that they are evoking a feeling of insignificance and uselessness among others.
So, how to listen properly? American speaker and consultant Brian Tracy, one of the world's leading personalities in the field of personal and professional development, writes in his blog that there are four basic rules of effective listening. No matter how many books and articles on listening you've read, you should know that these rules apply from time immemorial and will be the same in the future as well.
1. Listen carefully
Do not interrupt. Look at the person who speaks, nod, smile and be nice. Pay your full attention, do not prepare what you want to say in your mind.
2. Take a short pause before answering
By waiting with your response for three to five seconds after the other person finished, you will show that you are really considering what you've heard. In addition, the information expressed will also save deeper into your mind.
3. Ask questions to make sure that you understand correctly
Do not start with your own ideas right away. First, ask if you understand well what was said and ask for possible further explanations.
4. Repeat what was said in your own words
Briefly summarize what you've heard and let the other person know that you really listened attentively. Only then talk about your ideas.
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