Maybe you don’t have a ton in common with a coworker that’s giving a presentation. Spin that into a positive and think something like, “Marie has a much different skill set than me, so I can probably learn a lot from her presentation today. " This can be tough if you’re distracted by something else that’s put you in a bad mood or you’re frustrated with the speaker. If you can, reschedule the meeting or conversation so you can decompress and return with a new perspective.
If you’re in the audience of a lecture, communicate your attention by making eye contact with the presenter, nodding along, and writing down some key points in your notebook. If a colleague is speaking to you, try mimicking their body language. For example, if your coworker uses hand gestures as they speak, try doing the same. This can help the speaker feel more comfortable continuing to speak and can help you establish a rapport. Asking good follow-up questions is another great way to show that you’re actively listening to the other person. [4] X Expert Source Adina Zinn, MPACertified Career & Life Coach Expert Interview. 30 March 2022.
Perhaps you don’t often agree with a colleague’s marketing strategy. In the next marketing meeting, try to put your usual feelings aside and give your coworker a chance. You might be surprised to find you do agree with some of their ideas. It’s totally okay to disagree with the speaker. Just try to hear them fully before formulating your response or tuning them out. This can help you formulate a respectful, well-rounded response, even if you disagree.
Passive listening is when you hear a person’s words without reflecting on what they’ve said or responding to them. Active listening involves reflecting upon someone’s words and responding with questions or feedback. Summarizing what someone said in your own words and minimizing distractions (i. e. turning off your phone and talking in a quiet space) are other ways you can practice active listening. [9] X Expert Source Adina Zinn, MPACertified Career & Life Coach Expert Interview. 30 March 2022.
Perhaps you want to impress your boss with a good response in a meeting. Rather than formulating your response as they speak, hear them out and take a moment to consider your reply after they’re done speaking. Sometimes this happens even when you’re excited about the subject. If your friend mentions a band you like, for example, you might be tempted to interrupt them with your thoughts on their music. To be a respectful listener, wait until they’re done.
“You mentioned that this job involves customer service. Could you tell me more about that?” “A vacation sounds fun! Are you planning on taking any trips during your time off?”
If a colleague explains a new concept to you, take a few seconds to consider their words. You might come across a question you have about a specific detail, or you might realize just how brilliant their new idea is and want to praise them for it.
“Just to clarify, we’ll be changing how we handle client relations going forward?” “I think I understand. It sounds like you’re interested in trying new things to get a fresh perspective on life. " If you’re unable to come up with a summary, that might mean you could benefit from asking a follow-up question or going over what they said one more time.
If you get hungry and distracted during staff meetings, for example, try taking your lunch right beforehand or eating a snack. Do your best to get a full 7-8 hours of sleep at night to help you focus as well. You might be concerned about something going on in your personal life. Try your best to focus on the present moment. Being mindful of your surroundings and the sensations you’re feeling in the moment can help you with this.
If you need to have an important conversation with a friend, for example, sit them down in a quiet coffee shop or a secluded location at a park. You might put your cell phone on silent before an important conversation so you aren’t distracted by any notifications. [17] X Expert Source Adina Zinn, MPACertified Career & Life Coach Expert Interview. 30 March 2022. Sometimes, you don’t have much control over this. If your colleagues are talking loudly or construction work outside is distracting you, do your best to focus on the conversation at hand with other active listening strategies. If possible, you might also ask if you can move to a quieter place.
Maybe your boss is giving a presentation on the company budget, but you’re not interested in finance. Focus on how a well-organized budget will contribute to your department’s growth and success to gain a deeper understanding.
Disabilities and learning disorders that might affect listening include speech disorders, ADHD, and dyslexia. These are all very common, and a doctor can help you get a diagnosis and come up with a treatment plan. If you’re dealing with a language barrier in the workplace, you might try working with an interpreter or a translator if these services are offered. To see if any accommodations are offered, get in contact with your company’s human resources department.
