Listening is a critical component of effective communication. Effective listening leads to greater understanding, stronger relationships, better collaboration and problem-solving and even greater success. If there is one communication skill we should all aim to master, it is definitely listening.
We’ve all experienced those who don’t listen effectively: the half-listener, the “um hmm’r,” that doesn’t listen at all, the “multitasker,” who may or may not be paying attention, and the “responder,” who is just waiting for you to stop talking so they can interject.
Barriers to effective listening
In our 24x7 world, it is easy to get caught up in things that interfere with effective listening, such as:
- Being wrapped up in our own thoughts
- Being distracted
- Having already formulated a response
- Hearing something that conflicts with our opinion
Practicing active listening skills, such as the techniques below, can help you overcome any barriers to listening.
If you need additional help becoming a great listener, One Source EAP can help with 24/7/365 access at 800-300-0628.
All calls and services are strictly confidential.
7 Active Listening Techniques
Great listening skills may not come
naturally. We may need to practice improving our listening skills with the techniques below.
- Be fully present in the conversation
- Show interest by practicing good eye contact
- Notice and use non-verbal cues
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage further responses
- Paraphrase and reflect back what has been said
- Listen to understand rather than to respond
- Withhold judgment and advice
Learn more about active listening from Very Well Mind.
Register for the November Seminar, “Developing Listening Skills”
Employees of RWJBH and One Source EAP client companies may join the November One Source EAP seminar, “Developing Listening Skills,” on Thursday, November 20th from 12:00—12:30 PM via Zoom. View the list of 2025 monthly seminars and to register for this and/or the December session.
Visit the seminar page on our website to review the complete Seminar Catalog. Schedule a seminar for your team here.
