Why. Am. I. Talking? The Art of Listening

GE’s Jeffrey Immelt identified listening as one of the four core characteristics of its leaders. You know listening is an important skill, at work, at home, and in all our relationships. But when is the last time you really focused on listening? A few quick tips to consider:W.A.I.T. First and foremost - Why Am I Talking? If you’re talking, you’re not listening.Listen for the diamond, and don’t let it slip through your hand without notice. Anticipate a diamond in every conversation. Listen for it. Even if it is whispered as a side note.Probe, clarify, confirm. And then do it again. Make the person feel heard.Ask a question you don’t know the answer to. And keep asking. Don’t make a decision or judgment on the information you already have.Consider every voice and perspective. Where the person is coming from? Are they saying no to the request, or is there a fear impacting the conversation?Notice everything.  Listen to voices, notice body language, and question what is not being said. If a thought comes to mind of what you want to say, jot yourself a note. Then focus your attention back on listening.Try a few, or all, of these tips for 3 weeks. Notice how you change as a listener, and the impact you have on others. What will you gain from listening? You will make deeper connections, increase your empathy, learn more, and lead in a more effective and productive manner.As a career coach, I learn the most when I am actively listening. For both the client and me. And when I really listen to my children I hear what they’re saying, and not just the complaining, demanding, and negotiating.Lesson learned: Active and conscious listening takes practice and yields huge impact.