Active Listening Technique
Contents |
Abstract
Communication is an crucially important aspect of project, programme and portfolio management. According to the Handbook 80% [1] of a manger's time is spend on communication. Purdy [2] defines communication as a two dimensional phenomenon: speaking and listening. He also states that listening is the forgotten dimension of communication. Several researchers claim that listening competencies has often been taken for granted in managerial communication while it is hugely important to listen to achieve effective management of people and processes. Active listening increases the empathy for the speaker and the trust between the speaker and the listener.
Big idea
Describe the tool, concept or theory and explain its purpose. The section should reflect the current state of the art on the topic. Active listening is an attitude where you as a listener actively engage and express an interest in what the speaker tells you. A set of technical skills allow you to become an active lister [3]. This includes focusing on hearing what is being said without interrupting, letting the speaker know that you listen through body language or brief verbal affirmations and asking clarifying questions.
Application
Active listening is applicable in all stages of the management of both project, programmes and portfolios. Communication is key in all aspects of managing projects and thus, every project management practitioner will benefit from applying active listening techniques to their every day practice. Within a project communication is important but also among projects that are part of the same programme or portfolio is it important to communicate and active listening is a useful tool for the project management practitioner to engage in positive conversation with stakeholders of the project, program or portfolio.
Limitations
Active listening is practiced in spoken communication and cannot be used in written form. A lot of communication when managing projects takes place though e-mails or other written media not allowing for the manager to practice active listening. If the actions related to active listening is overdone the practitioner may come across as fake and that the interest for the speaker is not genuine. Active listening requires the listener to be open-minded. This can be challenged if we have prejudges or biases about each other before going into a conversation.
Annotated bibliography
References
- ↑ Geraldi, Joana; Thuesen, Christian; Oehmen, Josef; Sting, Verena (2017) Doing Projects. A Nordic Flavour to Managing Projects, Engineering Systems Division, Management Engineering Department, Technical University of Denmark.
- ↑ Purdy, M. (1997). What is listening? In M. Purdy & D. Borisoff (Eds.), Listening in everyday life. A personal and professional approach (pp. 1–22). Lanham, MA: University Press of America, Inc.
- ↑ Inga Jona Jonsdottir & Kristrun Fridriksdottir (2020) ACTIVE LISTENING: IS IT THE FORGOTTEN DIMENSION IN MANAGERIAL COMMUNICATION?, International Journal of Listening, DOI:10.1080/10904018.2019.1613156.
