You know what they say when you assume.
But it's something our minds naturally do. Our brain works to sift through all the incoming information and categorize it.
Is that person friendly? Is this bridge safe? Is this food delicious?
Our brain makes constant judgments about the world around us, so that it knows how to react. But is this instinctual habit hindering us in the work place?
When you start a meeting with co-workers, do you already know what they want out of the meeting? Or rather you think you know? When you read an email, do you infer a positive tone behind it, or a negative one?
We make assumptions about the needs and goals of our co-workers and forget to listen to what they are really saying. Even when we are "listening," we are thinking about the next thing we are going to say.
With our assumptions and our goals standing in the way of our listening, there isn't much room for collaboration. To foster a more open and cooperative work environment, try active listening
"Active listening is a way of listening and responding to another person that improves mutual understanding," as defined by the Conflict Research Consortium at the University of Colorado.
If your goal is mutual understanding, begin interactions with other co-workers with a servant's heart.
Steps to Actively Listen:
– Seek to understand their needs, goals, and feelings first.
– Clarify what you believe you've heard.
– Reserve judgment
– Keep a team player mindset
How much do you assume?
