Last week I gave you 3 simple steps to help you become a better listener:
1) Remove your agenda
2) Drop expectations
3) Embrace being in service.
Once you do these things, you’ve positioned yourself for success; however, the person(s) on the other end still has to “feel” as if you’re listening to them.
How do you do this?
Here are 2 very simple techniques:
1) Acknowledge that you’re present
2) Perception Checking
ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU’RE PRESENT
When you’re listening to someone, do you often feel an inner “itch” to solve their problems? Or, come up with the next step to help them move forward successfully?
If so, consider this alternative. – don’t do either.
Instead, all you have to do is say, “I hear you”.
By simply saying, “I hear you”, you’re acknowledging that you’re present and listening.
Give it a try.
PERCEPTION CHECKING
This technique is a great way to ensure that you’re following the person(s) story and on the same page.
Often times, it can be advantageous to give the other person and opportunity to pause, and perception checking is a powerful way to do this.
Perception checking is “checking in” with the other person during the conversation – For example…
“I want to make sure I’m following you; what I heard you say is….”
When you utilize perception checking, the other person feels heard and acknowledged. And most importantly, both parties get aligned before moving forward.
Give this a try and let me know how it goes.
Next week, I’ll conclude the “How You Get Results” series and talk about “staying curious” and “directing a conversation”.
Both of these techniques require you to sharpen your questioning skills and when used appropriately, can move mountains.
