Inspiring Workplaces
The Way Work Ought to Be! |
ISSUE 1,014 - Mar. 27, 2024 |
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Tips for More Mindful Listening |
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My wife asked me this morning if I was even listening to her and I thought to myself, "That's such a weird way to start a conversation."
If you want to be seen as a more influential, trustworthy and respected leader on your team, then listen up - literally.
Practicing exceptional listening skills is one of the most effective ways to build trust and rapport at work. Everyone wants to be heard. When people feel truly heard, they feel seen, respected, and valued.
Ample research shows that effective listening skills are also the key to great sales success. One study of care salespeople in Florida found that effective listening skills was the key to success for the top 10% salespeople.
A Harvard Business Review study, Mindful Listening, found that the most effective listeners don't just passively absorb everything the other person is saying - they are, to quote the authors, "more like trampolines."
Effective listeners are people who you want to bounce ideas off of, people who actively support you, and people who allow you to "gain energy and height, just like someone jumping on a trampoline."
The article suggests three levels of listening.
Level 1: The listener creates a safe environment where difficult conversations can be discussed.
Level 2: The listener clears away distractions like phones and computers and maintains good eye contact with the other person. This, the study notes, also influences the listeners attitude and makes them a better listener by acting the part. I would add that if you want to send a message that you are seriously interested in the other person, then show them you are putting away or turning off your phone, so they get the message that they are your priority.
Level 3: The listener seeks to clarify and understand the substance of what the other person is saying by asking follow-up questions and restating issues to confirm they understand what is being said to them.
I don't really see these as distinct levels; I suggest you practice all the above if you want to engage in richer conversations and earn a reputation as a leader on your team who is curious, compassionate, and trustworthy.
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Mike's Fun at Work Tip |
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Today is Quirky Country Music Song Title Day so hold a contest (it doesn't have to be today of course) for the best country music song title that is relevant/thematic with your profession or organization.
For a little inspiration, here are a few classics: "I Changed Her Oil, She Changed My Life," "If My Nose Were Full Of Nickels, I'd Blow It All On You," and "I Want My Mullet Back."
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Quote of the Week |
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“Comparison is the crush of conformity from one side and competition from the other – it’s trying to simultaneously stand out and fit in.”
Brene Brown
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Funny Business |
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April, official Humor Month, is right around the corner, so the April theme days are up on the website, including:
April 3: Don't Go to Work Unless It's Fun Day
April 6: International Pillow Fight Day
April 7: Beer Day
April 9: Be Kind to Lawyers Day
April 12: Walk On Your Wild Side
April 14: International Moment of Laughter Day
April 16: Stress Awareness Day
April 18: High Five Day
April 21: World Creativity and Innovation Day
April 22: Earth Day
April 23: Talk Like Shakespeare Day
April 24: Administrative Professionals Day
April 25: Hug a Plumber Day
April 29: International Dance Day
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Cost-Saving Opportunities to
Book Michael
Winnipeg: April 10, 11, 16, 18
Regina: April 23-26
Saskatoon: May 8, 13, 15, 16
Toronto: June 3-5
Toronto: Various dates in June
How to Be An Inspiring Culture Leader: What Culture Leaders Do to Create Inspiring Workplace Cultures That Drive Extraordinary Results This online membership site/course includes 12 video-based modules, 5 eBooks, and all the resources you need to help you and your team
build an inspiring workplace culture that works for everyone. Great deals for bulk signups!
WANTED: Lonely Audiences Seeking Energizing Speaker to Help Them Ramp Up Their Workplace Culture Respond to this email to find out how Michael can energize your workplace!
“You were the hit of the conference. Most of the participants rated you as the best presenter of the
conference.” Karen Bossin, Shoppers Drug Mart
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| Follow Michael Kerr - The Workplace Energizer! |
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