Most workplaces don’t have a communication problem. They have a listening problem. In fact, research shows we only retain around 25% of what we hear. Even less when we’re distracted, stressed, or multitasking.
So what happens in fast-paced, high-performing teams that don’t take listening seriously?
- Decisions get made with missing context
- People feel undervalued
- Feedback is misinterpreted
- Burnout creeps in quietly
The Link Between Listening and Performance
Studies have found that leaders who are perceived as good listeners are:
- More trusted
- Rated more competent
- Better at conflict resolution
- More likely to retain top performers
Why? Because when people feel heard, they’re more likely to speak up, with ideas, concerns, and solutions. That’s how organisations avoid costly mistakes, build better products, and foster innovation.
Listening Builds Emotional Safety
According to research from Google’s Project Aristotle, psychological safety was the #1 trait of high-performing teams. And the foundation of psychological safety? Feeling heard without fear.
It’s not enough to say, “My door’s always open.” If people feel like they’ll be dismissed, judged, or ignored, they’ll stay silent.
Real listening means slowing down, asking the second question, and showing people they matter.
Common Listening Gaps in the Workplace
- Talking more than you’re listening
- Cutting off people mid-sentence (even unintentionally)
- Skimming over emotional cues, like tone or body language
- Offering quick fixes without understanding the real issue
These habits don’t mean you’re a bad leader. But they might mean your team doesn’t feel fully seen.
Want to Level Up Listening?
Start with these:
- Ask follow-up questions like, “Can you say more about that?”
- Summarise what you’ve heard: “Just to make sure I understand…”
- Keep devices down in meetings
- Train managers on active listening techniques
- Ask yourself the question… ‘Why am I talking?’
- Contract silences and set the scene that silence isn’t awkward, it’s thinking time!
FINAL THOUGHT
Listening is more than a leadership skill. It’s a cultural signal. It tells your team:
“You matter. I see you. I’m here.”
And in a world full of noise, that signal makes all the difference.