It
has become common knowledge—ineffective managers, not salary, are the Number
One reason employees leave their jobs. Managers, then, who want to hold on to
their team, need to work on building strong relationships with their employees.
How? By showing that you care about them as individuals. And how do you show
you care? By listening to their concerns…not passively, but actively.
If
you need some coaching on how to listen actively, communication skills training pros tell you just how:
- Look beyond what they say. Tune into nonverbal clues that can tell you how employees are feeling. Then use “feeling” words to check that you have read them correctly. “You seem upset. Please tell me more.”
- Keep the conversation going. Encourage further communication by what you say and by showing your genuine interest with eye contact, nods and clarifying comments and questions.
- Prove that you paid attention. Summarize any key points in your own words so they know that they were heard.
