Practice active listening to understand your team's concerns from "summary" of The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
Listening is a crucial skill for any manager. It's not just about hearing the words that are being spoken; it's about truly understanding the message behind those words. Active listening involves more than just nodding along or saying "uh-huh" at the right moments. It requires you to fully engage with the speaker, to pay attention to their words, tone, and body language. When you practice active listening with your team, you show them that you care about their concerns and that you are genuinely interested in what they have to say. This helps build trust and strengthens your relationship with your team members. It also allows you to gain valuable insights into their thoughts, feelings, and motivations. To be an effective listener, you need to set aside distractions and give your team members your full attention. This means putting away your phone, closing your laptop, and making eye contact with the speaker. It also means being present in the moment, focusing on what is being said without thinking about what you're going to say next. Another important aspect of active listening is asking clarifying questions. If you don't understand something that has been said, don't be afraid to ask for more information. This shows your team members that you are engaged in the conversation and that you are committed to understanding their perspective. Reflecting back what you have heard is another powerful tool in active listening. Paraphrasing or summarizing what the speaker has said not only demonstrates that you were paying attention, but it also helps clarify any misunderstandings and ensures that you and the speaker are on the same page. By practicing active listening with your team, you can create a more open and honest communication environment. Your team members will feel heard and respected, leading to increased morale and productivity. So next time you're in a meeting or having a one-on-one conversation with a team member, remember to listen actively. It may just make all the difference.
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