Be a LOUD listener
Be a loud listener
By default, I am not a very good listener. It takes deliberate effort during conversation to create the space to listen. Personally, the experience of having a conversation with someone who is a poor listener isn’t particularly noteworthy. It usually leaves me feeling unheard, unimportant and meh!
On the other hand, having a conversation with someone who genuinely listens and shows interest – well, that is an entirely different experience. You feel heard, seen and interesting.
What is the distinction?
Good listeners show genuine interest in what you have to say, and less interest in proving that they are the most interesting person in the room. They are not waiting to speak while formulating responses. Rather, they are zoomed in and intently focused on what you are sharing. They are thoughtful in their follow-up questions. They ask questions that encourage deepened understanding and further conversation. They focus on looking you in the eye. They are engaged. They are not concerned about what they can get out of the conversation.
I know a few people who are LOUD listeners (Sahil Bloom). They inspire me to be a better listener because they make me feel valued and cared for. This week, I would like to challenge you to be more attentive in your conversations. Listen without expectation, ask good questions on purpose, focus on gaining understanding, and decide to be present. Be LOUD!
As Dale Carnegie put it: “If you want to be interesting, be interested.”
Thank you for reading. Have an exceptional weekend!
If you would like someone to listen to you, get in touch. You can reach us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
At PurposeWorks we are all about Making You and Your Work Rock. Our focus is on Organisational Health and Design, Employee Centered Culture, Leadership Development and Performance Coaching. For more information on how we can help you create a work environment that rocks, develop a great team, become an inspiring leader or unlock your personal excellence talk to us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
