Guest interview with Colin D Smith, the listening expert

In this show we talk to Colin D Smith who is an expert in listening. A skill we have talked about many times in the show.

 

Listening makes people feel needed and valued. It is something that can be learnt either through coaching in group settings or 121. Even though most people think they are good listeners in reality very few people have the skills to do it well. And this is reflected in society with a rise in loneliness and sadly suicide rates.

 

Colin goes on to say the importance of using open ended questions

“how do you feel about that?”

“ interesting, what more do you want to say about that?”

 

Sam poses the question of how can we use this in our business, in particular networking.

 

Good listening can results in building trust and be more likeable. So when dealing with customers get them to open up with open questions, exploring different options. And if you become a better listener your clients will in turn listen closer to you. It's a win win!

 

Colin believes deeper listening can be learnt. Clear away distractions, go in to your discussions with a settled mind and be more in the present. Avoid interrupting, stop trying to fix things, don’t be an eighteen second manager.

 

Colin goes on to re-enforce the quality of being present. Think along the lines of becoming a listener as to doing it.  Take a three second pause after the other person has finished speaking, observe their body movements. Listen for key phrases

“I have never told this to someone before”

 

Marcus brings up non verbal conversations. Eye contact, facing people during conversations, equality of viewpoints all contribute to the effectiveness of listening.

 

In times where you have to get to know people quickly, head shots, for example, it is important to get yourself centered before and during the event. Keep a calm demeanor in spite of everything.

 

Good listening skills will make your clients feel that they have the right person on the job.

You can contact Marcus

colin.smith@dexteritysolutions.co.uk

https://dexteritysolutions.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/colindsmith1

07939-013651