How to Listen with Impact

How to listen with impact is a powerful and essential skill for any leader, manager, entrepreneur and ambitious professional. IN a world where there is so much focus on “Speaking up”; “Share your story”; “Speak like a boss!”, things are getting noisy! And not only do you have to have an audience LISTENING, but there is little recognition that any conversation is two way. In other words, the listener plays a role in the conversation and is of equal value to the speaker. As a speaking communication expert, I do advocate speaking up and being heard; but unlike many other people in this field, I also highlight not only the role of the listener or audience; but also how important listening is.

How do we feel when we are not listened to or ignored?

We are all human and being ignored, undervalued or disregarded for our opinions or needs is hurtful. We feel undervalued; invisible and ‘not loved’. So many businesses and individuals make their customers, clients and colleagues feel like this because they are exclusively focusing on what they want to say, rather than understanding the client. 

How do I listen with impact?

It is very easy to listen but be distracted by other things. Perhaps this could be your mobile phone pinging a message; other distractions in the room, or even you thinking about what to say back rather than truly listening to the other person. By actively listening: that is REALLY listening to every word the other person is saying, without being judgemental or thinking what to say, you are genuinely connecting with the other person.

How could I show I am listening?

Do you know people who think they are listening but either they aren’t really listening? Or you don’t believe they are really listening because they are constantly distracted by their phone or even looking over your shoulder. If you wish to value the person you are conversing with, you need to SHOW you are listening. Simple ways of doing this include eye contact; mirroring body language; nodding; asking questions; actually looking interested in the conversation. Virtually, switching on your video; looking at the screen; looking vaguely interested; asking questions, all demonstrate you are in the conversation.

Being able to show you are listening; actually listening with purpose develops impact. It is part of our SuperStar Communicator workshop; and also the SuperStar Communicator programme for individuals. We believe listening is a key communication skill. If you would like to discuss how we could support your organisation to develop this for a team or individual contact usBook a chat