Steps to Improving Your Active Listening

As a supervisor and a professional, active listening will increase your communication skills with both employees and co-workers. By learning key steps in active listening, you will be able to retain information, understand the problem and build on your relationships in the workplace.

1.      Control mental barriers. Mental barriers will distract and block your ability to receive any information. You can control mental barriers by first identifying what is the cause of the distraction and take notes which will prevent you from day dreaming during important meetings.

 

2.      Use body language. Most of our communication occurs on a non-verbal level through body language. When listening to others, pay close attention to your facial expressions, eye contact, posture, vocal cues and personal space.

 

3.      Improve your listening. Ways to improve your listening skills include, listening to the content, intent and answering your employee or co-worker without judgment.

 

4.      Use reflective listening. Make sure you give full attention and make eye contact. Reflect both the verbal and non-verbal messages.

 

5.      Anticipate. Help the person that you are having a conversation with by asking questions, showing interest, expressing concerns and paying attention.