Show deep listening skills – and then some more
Deep listening shows that we not only understand what the other is saying but that we value and respect him/her as a human being. Through deep listening we show support to others, we offer the gift of empathy and build relationships based on trust.
Deep listening means suspending judgment and being fully present with another person to understand his or her experience or point of view. It is something that is done with the heart as well as the mind.
People want to be heard. They want to know that their opinions matter. So put down your mobile phone and iPad, keep them away from the keyboard and mouse and focus your gaze on the person speaking. Show them with your body language, as you would in a normal, face-to-face meeting, that you are alert and mindful of their words. Avoid distractions as much as possible, and accord others the same level of attention you would like to get when you speak.
