The Power Of Listening - Reflections Post International Music Summit
In the hustle and bustle of networking events, where conversations swirl like a whirlwind and business cards exchange hands like playing cards, it's easy to get caught up in self-promotion and agenda-pushing.
After all, we're often taught that effective communication involves articulating our thoughts clearly and confidently. But amidst the flurry of words, there's a quiet and profound art that often gets overlooked - the art of listening.
By embracing that, we open ourselves up to a world of new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities.
Mark Twain famously said, "If we were supposed to talk more than we listen, we would have two tongues and one ear." His words echo a fundamental truth: listening is not just about hearing words; it's about truly understanding and connecting with others.
During networking events, active listening becomes crucial. How do we value the art of listening more than speaking?
Here are some key takeaways:
Maintain Eye Contact: when you lock eyes with someone, you're signalling that you're fully present and engaged in what they have to say. It's a simple yet powerful way to show respect and foster deeper connections.
Don’t Be a Sentence-Grabber: resist the urge to interject with your own thoughts before others have finished speaking. By allowing people to express themselves fully, you demonstrate empathy and create space for meaningful dialogue. If you are focused on what you want to say, you won't be listening to what others are saying.
Offer Minimal Encouragers: sometimes, a few words of affirmation or curiosity can go a long way in keeping the conversation flowing. Phrases like "I understand" or "Tell me more" show that you're actively listening and interested in learning from the other person's perspective.
Ask Probing Questions: instead of focusing solely on what you want to say next, take the time to ask thoughtful questions that delve deeper into the topic at hand. Not only does this demonstrate your genuine interest, but it also encourages the speaker to share valuable insights and experiences.
So, the next time you find yourself at a gathering of minds, remember to listen up—because you never know what you might learn!
Maya Angelou (American author, poet, and civil rights activist) once said, "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."
This quote covers a profound truth about human interaction and the power of emotional impact. What we say and do might fade from memory over time. People may forget the specifics of a conversation, or a particular action taken, especially in the whirlwind of daily life. But what lingers far longer than words is the emotional residue left behind. The way we make others feel can have a lasting impact, shaping their perceptions and feelings towards us and themselves.
Feedback can promote personal growth and self-awareness. Make someone feel heard and valued is through active listening. By truly engaging with others, we validate their experiences, acknowledge their emotions, and create a space where they feel seen and appreciated!
Because in the end, active listening is a cornerstone of effective communication. It ensures that messages are accurately received and interpreted, reducing miscommunication, or misinterpretation. By carefully listening to each others’ perspective without judgment, we can identify common ground, address concerns, and find mutually beneficial solutions.