Listen to Them! JUST LISTEN WITH YOUR EARS!

I wrapped up another client video call, I couldn't help but release a tired sigh. As the founder and CEO of BestICoder Web Solutions , I took pride in guiding my clients and delivering results. But recently, something seemed off.

During project check-ins, I noticed a lack of engagement from clients. Their responses felt canned, almost robotic. Were they losing passion for their websites and apps? Were they even getting anything out of these calls? I realized I didn't really grasp their perspectives.

That evening, I reflected on recent conversations. I'd done most of the talking, giving my expert opinions and advice. There was little room for clients to share freely. I decided it was time to take a new approach.

On the next call, I asked Jonathan an open-ended question about his E-Commerce business's online sales project. Then, instead of jumping in with suggestions, I just listened intently.

Jonathan spoke animatedly about the challenges he faced. He worried about managing the new website himself without technical skills. As I listened without judgment, Jonathan brightened up. He started thinking out loud about potential solutions. By the end, he thanked me for hearing him out.

I learned two valuable lessons that day:

1. Jonathan simply needed to feel heard, not fixed.
2. Listening can strengthen partnerships.

I began asking more open-ended questions in meetings, letting clients share their true thoughts and feelings. I focused on listening deeply to understand their perspectives and needs. Slowly but surely, my clients opened up.

They spoke of feeling overwhelmed, doubting their business abilities, and needing more hand-holding. By listening, I gained insights that had been obscured before. I was able to tailor solutions to address clients' real concerns.

I realized mindful listening built trust and showed clients I cared. It created stronger bonds between us. I made a habit of it, even when time was short. Now when I ask a client how they are doing, I listen closely to the answer.

Sometimes the greatest act of service is giving someone your full attention. I learned that listening with empathy enables people to feel heard, understood and valued. And that changes everything.