How does 'active listening' help with communication at work?

Workplace communication is one of the fundamental pillars for team performance and the development of a healthy organizational culture. However, it is not enough to simply speak well or convey messages clearly; knowing how to listen is essential. Active listening, a concept widely studied by neuroscientists and psychologists, is a powerful skill that transforms professional relationships, reduces conflicts, and increases productivity. In an increasingly fast-paced world where mindfulness has become a scarce commodity, listening with intention and empathy can be the key differentiator between demotivated teams and inspiring work environments.

Research conducted at institutions such as Harvard and Stanford indicates that active listening is directly linked to socio-emotional competencies and the ability to lead effectively. Studies show that leaders who practice active listening create trust-based environments, facilitate innovation, and promote a culture of collaboration. A striking example is Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, who reshaped the company's culture by adopting principles of empathy and active listening, leading to a significant increase in employee engagement and creativity.

Active listening requires suspending judgment and giving full attention to the speaker. This means it is not just about hearing words but understanding emotions, intentions, and the subtext of the message. In the corporate world, many communication failures stem from passive listening, where a professional merely waits for their turn to speak without truly absorbing what is being said. This practice leads to misunderstandings, conflicts, and rework, harming efficiency and harmony in the workplace.

Practicing active listening also strengthens team relationships, as it demonstrates respect and appreciation for others. A study by the University of Southern California found that teams that adopt active listening principles show up to a 30% increase in productivity, as a clear understanding of expectations reduces errors and improves decision-making accuracy. A classic example is Oprah Winfrey, who built her career on the ability to genuinely listen to her interviewees, creating deep and authentic connections.

The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) and ThM (Theater Movement) methodologies, developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, incorporate active listening principles as a foundation for improving expression and interpersonal dialogue. MAT focuses on mindset and attitudinal posture, encouraging professionals to adopt a mindset of empathy and openness to others. ThM, on the other hand, uses theatrical movement as a training tool, enhancing the ability to interpret the nuances of non-verbal communication and strengthening connections between speakers.

In the corporate environment, active listening is not just a desirable skill but a strategic necessity. Professionals who listen attentively can resolve conflicts more effectively because they grasp their colleagues' real needs and concerns. Companies like Google and Amazon have already incorporated active listening training into their leadership programs, recognizing that this skill drives innovation and improves employee satisfaction.

The practice of active listening also contributes to workers' mental health. A study published by the Yale School of Management found that environments where active listening is encouraged have lower burnout rates and greater psychological well-being among employees. This occurs because the feeling of being heard reduces stress and strengthens the sense of belonging within the organization.

To develop active listening, it is essential to practice some daily habits: maintain eye contact, rephrase what was said to ensure understanding, avoid interruptions, and demonstrate interest through body and verbal language. Small gestures, such as nodding or facial expressions of agreement, reinforce the connection with the speaker and create a more open and productive dialogue environment.

Leaders who master the art of active listening have a greater ability to positively influence their teams. Steve Jobs, for example, was known for his communication skills but also for his attentive listening, which allowed him to understand customer needs and inspire his team to create innovative solutions. In a constantly evolving world, those who know how to listen are always one step ahead.

Active listening is, therefore, one of the main foundations of effective workplace communication. More than just hearing, it is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships, boosting productivity, and creating more humanized and inspiring organizational environments. By practicing it daily, professionals from all fields can transform the way they interact, achieving better results both personally and professionally.

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