3 tips to improve your workplace listening skills

It’s been said that we are given two ears and one mouth so we can listen twice as much as we talk… or something like that. Listening to concerns, questions and needs are all part of being an effective communicator. In the end, that is what all marketers and advertisers are. As an account executive at a marketing agency partner to clients, we work hard at d.trio to listen as effectively as we can. Here are a few things to keep in mind or practice to become a better listener:

1. Be “In the moment”
   I’ve written in the past that it’s easy to get distracted with all the technology we have. If you’ve noticed that you have missed parts of a conversation recently on a call or in a meeting, take a moment to try to remember what it was you were doing that made you miss that piece of information. Was it an email notification? Or were you messaging a coworker? Try turning off the notifications or your computer screen to see if that helps.

2. Acknowledge Key Information
   During the conversation, wait till the speaker has finished talking and then repeat key points back to them that you picked up. Take short notes if necessary. It’s also a great time to ask for clarification on points too.

3. Actively Listen
   If you’re thinking about what you are going to say while someone else is talking, then you’re likely not listening as intently as you could be. Try focusing on the person speaking and once they’re done, relay what you understand from their viewpoint.

I wouldn’t call myself quiet and I don’t think I know anyone else that would either. That being said, I work at being a good listener because I’m genuinely interested in what my clients have to say. If you’re finding that nobody is listening to your needs, then reach out to d.trio marketing group and we will actively listen to your marketing concerns.