An unseen problem within our culture is active vs. passive listening. As a result, not everyone recognizes the difference and how it can impact their work as HR professionals.
Have you ever been in a conversation where you were physically present, but your mind was miles away? That’s passive listening. It’s when you hear the words but do not pay attention to what’s being said.
On the other hand, active listening occurs when one is fully engaged in the conversation. One does not just hear the words; one understands their meaning. One also makes eye contact, nods, and asks thoughtful questions.
Why is Active Listening Important in HR?
- Improved Communication: Active listening fosters open and honest communication between HR professionals and employees. When individuals feel heard and understood, they are more likely to share their thoughts and concerns.
- Enhanced Employee Relations: By actively listening to employees, HR professionals can identify potential issues early on and take steps to address them. This can help prevent misunderstandings and improve employee morale.
- Effective Conflict Resolution: Active listening is essential for peaceful conflict resolution. When both parties feel heard and respected, finding common ground and reaching a mutually beneficial solution is easier.
- Better Decision-Making: By actively listening to employees, HR professionals can gather valuable insights that inform their decision-making, leading to more effective policies and programs.
How can you become a more active listener?
- Give Your Full Attention: Make eye contact, nod, and avoid distractions. Let the speaker know that you are engaged and interested.
- Paraphrase and Summarize: Restate the speaker’s main points in your own words to ensure you understand their message correctly.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage the speaker to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings by asking open-ended questions.
- Avoid Interrupting: Let the speaker finish their thoughts before responding. Interrupting can make the other person feel disrespected and may hinder communication.
- Show Empathy: Try to understand the speaker’s perspective and emotions. Let them know that you appreciate their point of view, even if you disagree.
By mastering the art of active listening, HR professionals can create a more positive and productive work environment for everyone involved. Remember, don’t just listen to respond; listen to understand.