In my workshops, I talk about an individual who has an uncanny ability to build relationships. He rose from an hourly paid employee to become the director of safety worldwide for a Fortune 100 company. How did he do it? He took the time to listen and understand his people and his “customers” — their needs, wants and desires. He applied this skill in all of his interactions.
We all want to be better at influencing change, building relationships, and resolving conflicts. Behind these skills in most cases is the ability to listen. Listening is one of the most — possibly the single-most — critical communications skill. Here are five keys to better listening: