HOWE Q. WALLACE BLOG

LISTENING IS KEY FOR OUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS…

As a facilitator who has often led discussions about how we can get better, communication is always a targeted emphasis. Β No one has ever said communication is as good as it can be.

Great communication is fueled by an organization where listening is prioritized. Β Teammates who value listening and practice it assure a number of things.

Where good listening is practiced, respect dominates. Β Good listening has respect at its foundation. Teammates who listen well demonstrate a high regard for others. Β They make room for all to speak. They honor candor. Β They express gratitude for the contribution’s others make.

Where good listening is practiced, teammates have a deep understanding of each other. Β When communication is encouraged by listening, a more detailed story is revealed. Β The background and context are developed. Β Trust is high.

Where good listening is practiced, curiosity and learning occurs. Β The free exchange of ideas lifts everyone’s knowledge. Β The open conversation broadens the range of ideas explored.

The great myth of listening is that it consumes time. Β My experience is that respectful, curious listening encourages better solutions.