Listen

Effective communication is not just about getting our message out. It’s also about receiving the messages of others.

• Don’t assume—ask.

• Have an “open door” policy.

• Confirm their understanding of your ideas… and your understanding of what they are proposing.

• Get their input on planning and implementation.

• Give people your full attention—don’t be multi-tasking while they are talking.

• Consider having regular one-on-one meetings with each of your direct reports—once per week or once per month, depending on what kind of work your team does. Ask them to brief you on what they have done, what they plan to do next, and to ask you about anything that concerns them. Not only will this keep you up-to-date on everyone’s projects, it also build familiarity and relationship between you and your team members, which makes it easier and less intimidating for them to talk to you.

• Always listen with respect and empathy. They may have different feelings, reactions, and priorities than you do, but both yours and theirs are valid perceptions from each of your perspectives. Don’t dismiss their viewpoint just because it is different from you own. And if you listen well, you’ll have and be able to use the knowledge and understanding of multiple people, so you’ll make better decisions.

(image source: www.instagram.com/p/DQCD754D6XP/)