An important component of skillful in-person communication is the “Art of Listening.” Whether you are dealing with a customer service issue or an employee problem, improving your listening skills can help you to achieve a successful resolution of the issue. Once you learn how to listen, your managerial skills will improve dramatically.
Start With a Clean Desk or Counter Area
If there are loose papers on your desk or counter, you will unconsciously start to fiddle with them and may even start to glance over them. Have a clear desk or find a clear counter area, so you can focus your attention on what the customer or employee is saying.
What is the color of the other party’s eyes?
Train yourself to notice eye color at the start of every conversation. It ensures that you’ll make significant eye contact which leads to more productive conversations.
Important: Don’t focus so much on eye color that you don’t listen to what is being said.
Train yourself to ask questions instead of making statements.
