Golden Rules of Listening

Do you know that moment in time when your canine companion digs in her paws, gives you that stubborn stare, and practically barks, "You can't make me!" I call that a JackieO moment. We've all been there, right?? Sometimes our pets, like people, get so loud we can't hear a word anyone else is saying.

Let's face it, living in a world where even our pets challenge us can make it tough to tune in to what others are saying, even in the workplace. Take Susie and Michael, for example. Susie has this grand vision for a project, and she's charging ahead full steam, not even pausing to let poor Michael get a word in. Can you blame the guy for feeling a bit demoralized and disconnected? I mean, who wants to feel like their ideas are being ignored?

There's a silver lining in this furry tale! We've got some tips for tuning in to what others are saying. Ready for some helpful listening tips?

First off, let's take a cue from our canine companions and ditch those judgments and assumptions. They're like leashes holding us back from truly understanding.?

Instead, let's get curious. Ask people questions, show genuine interest, and wrap our heads around what the other person is saying to give them the gift of listening.

Last, encourage them to weigh in, share their ideas, and feel like they're part of the pack.? Consider giving them their moment in the spotlight.

??So, next time you find yourself in a JackieO ? situation or on the verge of steamrolling over ? someone else's ideas, remember these golden ? rules of listening. Your team—and your furry ? friend—will thank you for it!

?How Do We Play Nice in the Sandbox?

Ellen Robinson, President of TEAM Performance, works with forward-thinking leaders who want to bring their best selves to work and life. She and her team focus on improving productivity, trust, teamwork, communication effectiveness, and productive conflict. For the last 36 years, she has worked with small business owners, Fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations, consultants, governmental agencies, and utility companies.?

If interested, call Ellen at 512 750 4929 or email her here.