The 3 R’s of Active Listening

Think of all the communications courses you’ve taken, seminars you’ve attended, and articles you’ve seen in which they tell you how to speak, how to present, or how to create a PowerPoint slide. Compare that to how much less often a course is offered on how to listen. Active listening is a key — an absolute MUST — for good communication, and it’s something we focus on frequently in our workshops at The Latimer Group. We break it down to 3 simple R’s to help you be a better listener:

1. Respect — Active listening starts with the most common of courtesies. Engage with the person you’re communicating with. Turn off your phone. Don’t multitask. Focus your attention, because it will help you…
2. Remember — Before things go in one ear and out the other, take a moment to jot notes during your conversation. Repeat key phrases back. Engage in a dialog to help you retain that key information. Ask questions for clarity. And then, once you’ve got it…
3. Review — Wrap up your conversation or presentation with a summary, an action plan, next steps, etc. Go over what you covered, and what was decided as a result.

Use these 3 R’s liberally, and good listenership and respect will soon become traits you’re known for. Not a bad reputation to carry with you through your career.

Good luck.