No One at Work is Listening to Me
Updated: May 10, 2023
Do you ever feel like no one at work listens to what you say?
Struggling to be heard can make it difficult to bring your most productive self to work, much less find joy in what you do. There are several communication mistakes we make while speaking that can cause people to shut off their ears and brains.
The list below ⤵ explores some of these mistakes and offers some insights to why people might tune you out.
😲 Lack of direction - Does what you are trying to communicate have a clear purpose? Would a listener have difficulty following the conversation?
😲 Lack of clarity - Do you know and understand what you are trying to say? Is your delivery clear and concise?
😲 Lack of confidence - Content is critical, but if the audience is left wondering how committed you are to what you are saying they will automatically be less interested in listening.
😲 Your body language and words differ - Studies report that your words only convey about 7% of what you’re trying to say. The other 93% is communicated through facial expressions and the tone of your voice. You can use a recording device or feedback partner to verify that your body language matches your words when you practice.
😲 Lack of openness - Don't forget that communication goes both ways. If you are not listening or open to other perspectives, you might get the same treatment when talking.
😲 You interrupt - People like to be noticed, so you need to give it to them. Share the stage and practice patience. Make sure you let the other person finish their point before starting yours. Yes, even if you disagree with someone’s ideas.
😲 You only talk about yourself - Effective communication requires that all parties feel involved. Hence, when you only speak for yourself, it can lead to fading interest and reduced attention.
Feeling unheard is painful and unproductive for your relationships and career. Learning to master your communication skills can reduce these feelings and activate your progress.
What are you waiting for? You got this!
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