What Did You Say?

People in the business world are always trying to find ways to save time. By engaging in good listening strategies, an organization can maintain a competitive advantage in the economic market. From the most mundane hallway conversations to those high-stakes discussions in the boardroom, good listening skills can give your company a winning edge. Messy listening leads to wasted time spent clarifying messages and correcting avoidable mistakes. Careful listening leads to clear responses.

Example A - Messy Listening:

Steven asks Aaron about a project. This is what happens:

Steven: "Our project manager forwarded the Stanton files to you yesterday. Can you make copies of pages 45 to 55 and bring them to my office?"

Aaron: "Sure. I can do that!"

One hour later.

Aaron: "Here you go."

Steven: "You've given me copies of pages 35 to 45, but I still need copies of pages 46 to 55. Our meeting starts in two minutes!"

Example B - Good Listening:

Rochelle asks Christopher about a project. This is what happens:

Rochelle: "The corporation we are working with owes $10,000 to the firm. Do you have the B78-A records for review?"

Christopher: "Absolutely. The B78-A records are in my office. I'll bring those by your office."

One hour later.

Christopher: "Here are the B78-A records that you requested."

Rochelle: "Thank you, Christopher. These are exactly the records I need. I have plenty of time to prepare for our meeting at 3 this afternoon."

Summary

Example A shows how business operations slow down when we don't keep our listening skills sharp. Aaron does not listen carefully and thereby leaves Steven with two bad options. Steven can either attend the meeting on time without the necessary copies or he can arrive late to the meeting after finally obtaining the correct copies.

On the other hand, Example B shows that a high listening quotient leads to an efficient use of time and energy. Rochelle and Christopher's exchange shows how good listening skills are crucial to maintaining a smooth running workplace.

Three Easy Ways to Elevate Your Listening Skills:

1) Focus.

2) Establish good eye contact.

3) Use positive body language.