Active listening is one of the most important skills for success at work. It’s more than just hearing words; it’s about fully concentrating n what’s being said, understanding the intent behind the message, and responding thoughtfully. In a fast-paced world full of distractions, active listening can easily fall by the wayside, but mastering it can make a big difference.
Poor listening can lead to misunderstandings, mistakes and wasted time. Strong listening skills, on the other hand, improve accuracy, strengthen relationships, boost collaboration and increase productivity. Here are Skillset’s top tips for becoming a better active listener:
1. Give the Speaker Your Full Attention
Put away distractions like your phone, stop multi-tasking and focus on the conversation. Maintain eye contact and pay attention to tone, body language and gestures because they are all part of the message.
2. Use Non-Verbal Cues
Show you’re engaged by nodding, smiling, leaning in slightly and maintaining positive body language. These cues reassure the speaker that you’re listening and interested.
3. Wait Before Responding
Avoid interrupting or planning your response while the speaker is talking. Let them finish before asking questions or sharing your thoughts. This ensures you hear the full message.
4. Ask Open-Ended Questions
If you need clarification, ask questions that encourage detailed answers rather than a simple yes or no. Examples include:
- “Can you tell me more about that?”
- “What led you to that decision?”
- “Why do you think that’s the best approach?”
5. Summarise What You Heard
At the end of the conversation, briefly recap the key points. This confirms your understanding and gives the speaker a chance to clarify anything.
Active listening takes practice, but it’s worth the effort. It helps you build stronger relationships, avoid mistakes and become a more effective communicator. Start by focusing fully, asking thoughtful questions and summarising what you hear. You’ll notice the difference.
The Rise of the Non-Linear Career Path
You may also like
How to manage your nerves in a job interview
Let’s face it, job interviews can be nerve-racking. […]
Getting Career Ready for 2026
If you’re thinking about putting your job search […]
Skillset would like to acknowledge and pay respect to the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work.We are honoured to be on the ancestral lands of those whose cultures are among the oldest living cultures in human history. We pay respect to the Elders, past, present and to the younger generation of the community who will be the future leaders in years to come.