New Year, Better Listening

We all know how frustrating it is to have to repeat yourself multiple times, or get asked a question you just answered.  Being a good listener is an imperative skill to maintain in the workplace.  “6 Steps to Becoming a Better Listener,” gives Nancy Friedman’s tried and true techniques to being a better listener.
In this video-based online training course, Friedman gives important steps to guide employees to become better listeners, which leads to better customer service and a more cohesive team at work.  Her six techniques include:

1. decide to be a better listener
2. welcome the caller (or customer)
3. concentrate, don’t multitask
4. keep an open mind, avoid jumping to conclusions
5. give feedback that you are listening
6. take notes while you listen

Related to Friedman’s techniques, Dawn Rosenberg McKay, career planning professional and contributor at About.com, gives similar advice as well as explain why good listening skills are vital.
McKay’s article, “Now Pay Attention: Here’s Why You Need Good Listening Skills ,” not only explains why we need good listening skills, but also explains how to listen well. McKay additionally covers barriers to listening well.

There is a major difference between hearing and being a good listener.  As the New Year gets closer and closer, use our communication training videos as your tool toward making good listening one of your New Year’s resolutions.