If you find yourself asking “what is active listening?” then you’re not alone, but the premise really is as simple as it sounds. Active listening is a communication technique that requires the listener to fully engage with the speaker to understand and interpret the speaker’s message. Active listening can be used in both personal and professional settings and is a valuable skill to practice and perfect in the workplace.
Active listening has numerous benefits in the workplace. When employees actively listen to their colleagues, they can build better relationships, resolve conflicts more effectively, and increase productivity. Active listening can also help employees to develop a deeper understanding of their colleagues’ perspectives to build trust and mutual respect.
There are several key active listening skills that can be useful in the workplace. If you want to improve your active listening skills, there are several things you can do. Make a conscious effort to pay attention when others are speaking, and try to withhold judgment. When someone is speaking, try to paraphrase and repeat back what you’ve heard to seek clarity and demonstrate that you have listened and understood. And finally, maintain eye contact with the speaker.
As well as practising the skills you already have, you can also try attending active listening training courses to teach you more about the skills and techniques involved with truly effective active listening. Active listening training can help you and your team unlock the benefits of respectful and immersive communication, leading to better workplace outcomes. Reduced conflict, increased professionalism, higher productivity, and improved business outcomes are just some of the many benefits of active listening training in a workforce.
Active listening training courses are a great way to learn more about the skills and techniques involved in active listening. These courses can teach you how to pay attention, answer without judgment, paraphrase and reflect, and maintain eye contact. Many of our professional development training courses include modules on active listening and how to apply these techniques in the workplace.
If you want to take a deep look into advanced leadership techniques, including active listening, then consider our 4-day CMI Level 7 – Senior Leadership Programme or 5-day Advanced Management and Leadership Programme, and work towards a Post Graduate Certificate in Management and Leadership accredited by the University of East London. Or if you are looking for active listening training that is a bit less of a commitment, why not enrol on our CMI Level 5 - Leadership and Management Programme. Browse our face-to-face and virtual courses and sign up today.