The Art of Listening

For building relationships, creating more authentic connections, asking for help, and even becoming a better manager and leader, there are few skills more value than effective listening. What a shame it is, then, that so many of us have such poorly developed listening skills! In this profile from First Round Review, author and seasons user researcher Ximena Vengoechea provides practical tips and strategies for developing those listening skills. With a listening mindset, Vengoechea explains, “You’re focusing on getting curious about the other person, about what they’re sharing and why they’re sharing that with you. Humility requires shifting from the role of a teacher — which is how many of us come into conversation — to that of a student, where you’re trying to learn. And then you’re exercising empathy, trying to understand that other person’s experience.”