Listening is a VERB! The Five Keys to Active Listening

By Jean LaVallie , Founder and President Women Entrepreneurs Secrets of Success (WESOS)

Following up on the profound insights from Donna Riccardo 's workshop, I discussed last week, it's essential to delve deeper into the mechanics of active listening and its significance. Here are the five keys to mastering active listening and why they are vital for your life and business:

1. Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact is one of the most powerful ways to show that you are fully present and engaged in a conversation. It helps build trust and makes the speaker feel valued and respected. During the workshop, when Dannelle (Liza) Stratton made eye contact, it conveyed that she was genuinely interested in our conversation. This simple act of connection made me feel respected and heard, highlighting the importance of eye contact in effective communication.

Eye contact also plays a crucial role in non-verbal communication. It can convey a range of emotions and intentions, from interest and empathy to confidence and sincerity. By maintaining eye contact, we can create a deeper connection with the speaker and show that we are truly engaged in the conversation.

In a professional setting, maintaining eye contact can enhance our credibility and build trust with clients and colleagues. It shows that we are attentive and focused, which can lead to more productive and meaningful interactions. Additionally, eye contact can help us better understand the speaker's emotions and intentions, allowing us to respond more thoughtfully and empathetically.

2. Body Language

Open and relaxed body language signals attentiveness and interest. Nodding, leaning slightly forward, and mirroring expressions can enhance the connection between the speaker and the listener. During our exercise, Dannelle's responsive body language communicated empathy and understanding, which deepened our interaction and made me feel more comfortable and valued.

Body language is an essential component of active listening because it provides important context and can help us understand the speaker's emotions and intentions. By being aware of our own body language and that of others, we can create a more supportive and engaging environment.

In a business context, positive body language can enhance our professional relationships and build trust with clients and colleagues. It shows that we are approachable and attentive, which can lead to more effective communication and collaboration. Additionally, being aware of our body language can help us avoid sending unintended signals that may undermine our message.

3. Avoiding Interruptions

Letting the speaker finish their thoughts without interruption shows respect and allows them to express themselves fully. This uninterrupted space fosters better understanding and prevents miscommunication. In real-life scenarios, avoiding interruptions ensures that the speaker feels their perspective is genuinely considered.

During the workshop, I noticed how powerful it was to have the space to speak without interruptions. It allowed me to articulate my thoughts more clearly and feel that my message was valued. This experience reinforced the importance of giving others the time and space to express themselves fully.

In professional settings, avoiding interruptions can lead to more productive and meaningful conversations. It shows that we value the speaker's input and are willing to listen to their perspective. This, in turn, can enhance our ability to understand their needs and respond more effectively.

4. Reflective Listening

Paraphrasing or summarizing what the speaker has said demonstrates that you are actively processing their message. It also provides an opportunity for clarification and ensures mutual understanding. For instance, responding with, "So what you're saying is..." can validate the speaker's experience and ensure that their message is accurately understood.

Reflective listening is a powerful tool for enhancing communication and building rapport. It shows that we are paying attention and are committed to understanding the speaker's perspective. This can lead to more effective problem-solving and collaboration, as we are better equipped to address the speaker's needs and concerns.

In a business context, reflective listening can help us build stronger relationships with clients and colleagues. By demonstrating that we value their input and are committed to understanding their perspective, we can foster a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. This, in turn, can lead to greater trust and loyalty, which are essential for long-term success.

5. Empathy and Patience

Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another. Being patient allows the speaker to convey their message at their own pace. These elements are crucial in building rapport and trust. In business, empathetic listening can uncover underlying needs and motivations, leading to more effective problem-solving and collaboration.

During the workshop, I experienced the power of empathy and patience firsthand. When Dannelle was fully engaged and empathetic, it made me feel understood and valued. This experience reinforced the importance of being patient and empathetic in our interactions, both personally and professionally.

In a professional setting, empathetic listening can help us build stronger relationships with clients and colleagues. By showing that we understand and care about their feelings and concerns, we can create a more supportive and collaborative environment. This, in turn, can lead to more effective communication and problem-solving, as we are better equipped to address the speaker's needs and concerns.

Active listening is not just about hearing words; it's about understanding the complete message, including emotions and intentions. By mastering these five keys, you can enhance your interactions, build stronger relationships, and create a more supportive and collaborative network. Whether you are engaging with a client, a colleague, or a friend, active listening will make your communication more impactful and meaningful.

Implementing these practices can transform your personal and professional life, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and connected.

Women Entrepreneurs. Experience the "Heart of WESOS", where building authentic relationships leads to business growth, shared resources, collaborations, referrals, inspiration, and more! Get started for free today: WESOS Community Center

#wesos #womennetworking #womencommunity #womensupportingwomen #networkingwithintention #community #empathy #authenticrelationships #activelistening