I think one of the most common business relationship challenges is the fact that we don’t listen to really hear but rather to reply. As a guidance Counsellor, I often hear people complaining that the people are not listening to him or her. One of Stephen Covey’s 7 Effective Habits is to Listen. His son, Sean Covey says we must listen with our ears, hearts and eyes.
I found the following 6 key listening skills at the Centre for Creative Leadership:
1. Pay attention.
2. Withhold judgment.
3. Reflect.
4. Clarify.
5. Summarize.
6. Share.
(I believe that if we followed these 6 keys, we would not only be more successful in leadership but also in our personal relationships.)
I challenge you to Try it!