6 Reasons Why You Need to Be a Great Listener
I love this quote that says:
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
Feeling heard makes people happy. I know it makes me feel good when someone is listening to me.
In our Coffee with Champions Employee Curriculum, listening is the second workshop we have our clients do.
Why?
Because it just makes you a better friend, spouse, parent, employee, leader, and human being.
So, let me just give you some real-life benefits of being a great listener.
#1 Helps you negotiate to get what you want
William Ury, a world-class negotiator and co-author of Getting to Yes, emphasizes that listening is one of the most powerful tools for effective negotiation. Maybe you’re buying a vehicle, trying to get a raise, or something similar.
#2 Get along better with your significant other
This is common sense, but listening makes them feel valued and heard. It deepens trust and reduces misunderstandings. Think about it, do you like it when your spouse ignores you?
#3 Sell More
They say great salespeople spend 80% of the conversation listening and only 20% speaking. That’s the opposite of what most people think of salespeople.
#4 People will think you are smart.
Seriously, a study said that if you are in a conversation and just listen, people will automatically assume you are intelligent. That’s better than assuming the alternative.
#5 Solve conflict
The best way to solve any fight is just to go into it asking questions. Just letting someone talk can make them feel better and get the frustration off their chest.
#6 Build a stronger team
What kind of leader do you want to be? A dictator who forces people to do something? Or someone people willingly want to follow? If you choose the latter, it starts with listening.
Be a Force for Good,
Lance
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A column about humans doing good, winning in life, and making work fun again.
