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Did You Hear Me? by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

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  • Did You Hear Me? by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

Did You Hear Me? by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

Blog
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September 11, 2018

Being a good listener is one of the most beneficial characteristics you can exhibit as a leader. Most of us believe that we are good listeners, but those who talk to us might see otherwise. Here are some tips to help you improve your listening skills.  

  • Eliminate distractions. It is much easier to really hear what someone is saying when you eliminate the other things around you that might distract you. A quiet room and a closed door may help you to take in what the other person is saying.
  • Ask questions. Ensure that you understand what the person is really trying to tell you by engaging them with questions where you are unsure. In addition to helping you clarify items, you will demonstrate to the other person that you are fully engaged.
  • Pay attention to body language. Listening to a person is more than just hearing the words they are speaking. You’ll often get very important clues from their body language. If you pay attention, you’ll even see when they don’t really feel comfortable talking to you, through gestures like keeping their arms folded across their chest. There are many books you can read about body language and what the most common gestures and positions mean. Use these clues to help develop your skills. Over time, with regular conversation, you should be able to see them become more comfortable through both what they say, and what they don’t say.
  • Throughout the conversation, take the opportunity to paraphrase back to them what you believe they are trying to say. Not only will this help them know you’re listening, but it will give them an opportunity to clear up any miscommunication. It also keeps you accountable to really paying attention, if you know you have to paraphrase back to them.
  • Be proactive. If you notice something going on with an employee, but they aren’t reaching out to you, approach them to let them know you’re available to talk. Don’t force them, but let them know you are there if they need you.

Becoming a better listener takes practice and a real desire to be more proficient at this skill. Practice on the people you feel most comfortable with, and soon you’ll be able to talk with anyone, knowing that you are really hearing what they are trying to tell you.

 

 

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active listening, effective communications skills, interactive, Listening
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Cindy Stradling

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Our Clients Say

We have had the pleasure of working with Cindy Stradling to source several top notch consultants to assist us with the design and delivery of a variety of Learning and Development and HR Programs. This this successful collaboration we have truly appreciated Cindy's very high standards for members of her network, the drive and energy she brings to her work and most importantly her strong commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of her clients.

Deborah A. Fillippe, CHRL VP Human Resources Kenaidan Contracting Ltd.

Cindy has been a terrific resource to Metro! She met with us to clearly understand our needs then provided us with a shortlist of top-quality trainers for us to meet. The whole process was simple and seamless, and it saved us a lot of time in sourcing companies with specific skill sets. She's a pleasure to work with.

Gary Grant, CHRL Director, Talent Management and Training Metro Inc.

Cindy provides a very progressive and engaging training environment. We have seen her successfully provide solutions to companies and individuals from all sectors, from the sophisticated to entry level. The integrity she applies to all aspects of her business is beyond reproach.

Al Diggins President and GM Excellence Manufacturing Consortium

Cindy has been engaged by Express Scripts Canada to provide Presentation Skills training to our management team. Cindy's expertise in this area has been invaluable in supporting our leaders with their leadership development in their presentation styles.

Anthea Gomez Director, Human Resources & Corporate Services Express Scripts Canada

Cindy is the epitome of positive energy! I didn't just work with Cindy at Duplium; I continue to keep in touch with Cindy because she is a wealth of knowledge and always a delight to catch up with. If you need something or someone, just ask her, she will get it done! She embodies the unique combinations of integrity, commitment and resourcefulness. Thank you Cindy for all the times you gave me just what I needed!

Susan Orenbach Senior Human Resources Professional

We engaged Cindy to help us develop a leadership training program and provide our management with one on one coaching. Cindy's professionalism, ability to understand our challenges and develop an innovative, cost effective training program in a timely manner was truly impressive. I recommend and welcome the opportunity to work with Cindy.

Marina Lichtenberg National Manager, Talent Acquisition Canon Canada - "Your gateway to a dynamic career with Canon"

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