4 Listening is at the heart of communication, and the results from our recent employeeengagement survey reminded us just how important it is in our workplace. Many colleagues shared that they sometimes feel their input is overlooked in meetings or decisions. Others noted that instructions or updates can be unclear, which shows how vital it is to listen carefully before responding. When we listen fully, we not only avoid misunderstandings but also show respect for the person speaking. Respect, in turn, builds trust and strengthens relationships. Several survey responses highlighted that when colleagues listen without interrupting or dismissing, collaboration improves. Where disagreements were mentioned, the underlying issue was often that people felt misunderstood, proof that listening is the first step toward resolving conflict constructively. Emotional intelligence, or *EQ, gives us the tools to make listening more effective. Many of us attended the recent EQ team building sessions presented by Michelle Gevers. In the workbook we learned that self-awareness helps us notice when we are distracted instead of paying attention. Self-regulation allows us to pause before reacting, ensuring our responses are thoughtful. Empathy is expressed through listening to understand, not just to reply. Social skills turn listening into action, building trust, clarifying expectations, and resolving issues. When we practice these EQ skills, communication becomes more than exchanging information; it becomes connection. Research backs this up. Studies published in the **Harvard Business Review show that effective listening is not simply staying silent while someone else speaks, it’s about active engagement, asking clarifying questions, and providing thoughtful feedback. Good listeners make conversations a mutually positive experience, which leads to stronger relationships, more trust, and better outcomes. Employees who feel heard are more likely to be engaged and motivated, which directly improves workplace performance and satisfaction. Our own survey results echo this: when staff feel listened to, they are more committed, more collaborative, and more energised. Listening also requires us to overcome barriers. A *** LinkedIn article by Noah Rabinowitz points out that ego often gets in the way, we focus on our own opinions, rush to respond, or listen only to find flaws. Distractions like phones, emails, and multitasking further reduce our ability to engage fully. Recognising these tendencies is the first step to overcoming them. True listening means slowing down, calming the mind, and preparing to give another person your undivided attention. It is, as Rabinowitz describes, an art form that requires practice, patience, and a genuine desire to connect. Each of us can contribute to better communication and listening in simple but powerful ways. We can practice active listening by focusing fully on the speaker and avoiding multitasking. Asking clarifying questions instead of assuming helps ensure understanding. Respecting pauses and allowing colleagues to finish before responding – Neels Reyneke – Human Resource Manager) – Why Listening Matters (a lot)
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