1. The Power Of Listening
Master the skill of listening. Let's admit, most often than not, we only hear what we want to hear. In fact, most of the time we just hear what people are talking, but we do not listen to them.
“The art of conversation lies in listening” — Malcolm Forbes
If we listen to someone attentively, then you not only listen to the words, but also to the feeling of what is being conveyed.
The next time when you listen, avoid having preconceptions of what you know. In other words, always have an open mind about what others have to say.
To be a better listener, you should remember it is not all about YOU. Be more interested than just want to be interesting. When you listen raptly, you make the other person fel valuable.
If you want to improve your listen skills, then get Mark Goulston's book "Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Trough To Absolutely Anyone".
He shows you simple but powerful techniques you can use to get through to people; be they're coworkers, friends, strangers, or even enemies.
2. Never Interrupt When People Are Speaking
This is common sense, yet I see many of us still commit this rather offending act. Always allow room for people to fully express their views or concern.
Suppress the urge to interrupt. Let them finish what they have to say, before you say your piece. Or you could end up putting your foot into your mouth, so to speak.
So it is proper to listen them out first and let them finish first.
Focus on what you need to say. Don't ramble, so you do not counfuse your listeners. Be they your presentation, conversation or email writing. Besides, being clear, make sure what you say is correct and coherent.
You will be surprised to know that many of us in the workplace are still struggling with clarity and conciseness.
Avoid jargon, and make your sentences short and direct.
4. Express Empathy
Being able to express or show empathy genuinely is one of the most key interpersonal skills.
In order to achieve that, firstly you need to listen attentively to what the other person is saying. Now you see the importance of listening, as I have just explained above.
Frankly if you truly empathize with the person, your body language will show. For instance, you will maintain close proximity, maintain eye contact and speak with a concern voice tone.
5. Non-Verbal Communication
I have written about the importance of non-verbal communication before. Always remember this: how we say something is more effective than what we say.
It is no secret, nonverbal cues reveal a lot more than you actually speak. You can almost see someone through with just eye contact.
Using eye contact can to communicate. It shows your involvement, interest and warmth.
Another over looked this silent aspect of communication in the workplace is your handshake. A confident and honest handshake should be a full and firm handclasp with full palm.
One book you might like to check out is Workplace Communication written by George J. Searles.
