Richard Ghilarducci: How to Improve Active Listening

Richard Ghilarducci: Good Listening Equals Good Communication

To understand the importance of active listening, Richard Ghilarducci says that you have to ask yourself if you've ever had a conversation when you wondered if the person you were talking to was listening to what you were saying. If you have to wonder if your message is getting across or if it's worthwhile continuing to speak, something might be wrong. If it feels like talking to a brick wall, it's something that you might want to look into because let's face it -- it's something you want to avoid as a listener.

By becoming a better active listener, you can improve your productivity. You can also boost your ability to influence, persuade, negotiate, and communicate. Moreover, you'll avoid conflict and misunderstandings because everything being said registers clearly in your brain. All of these are necessary for workplace and leadership success.

An old saying goes, "They don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." In communication, listening is more important than talking. Active listening is the ability to absorb what others say and listen with an open mind.

Developing good listening skills is one of the key components of effective communication. It facilitates understanding by allowing you to gather more information from your conversations. Active listening involves focusing your attention on the speaker, comprehending what is being said, and demonstrating your understanding through feedback. When you listen attentively, it makes the speaker feel valued, leading to more trust and credibility in your relationship.

Here are two ways to improve your active listening skills, as shared by Richard Ghilarducci.

First, you can practice having an inviting body language.

The first step you have to do as an active listener is to give the impression that you are approachable. Position your body in a way that makes it inviting and easier for people to come and talk to you. Instead of having your arms crossed in front of your chest, put them at your side.

You can also try to move slightly closer toward the person you're talking to and smile and laugh when appropriate. You can also nod if you agree or understand what someone is saying. When you hear new or interesting information, you can tilt your head, all while keeping eye contact.

Next, you can listen without distraction.

According to Richard Ghilarducci, there's nothing more frustrating than having to talk to someone with their faces in front of their smartphones. If you're conversing with someone, zone out background noise and even thoughts so your focus is on the person in front of you.

During his career that spanned over 30 years, Richard Ghilarducci held leadership roles, including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Operating Officer. He was also elected Mayor of the City of Rio Dell for three terms. For more of his insights on leadership, follow this page for updates.