Project Management Soft Skill Tip #4

All managers, especially project managers, need to constantly focus on improving their listening skills.  Nothing says "I heard you" more than telling people what they just told you.  The best way not only to show you have listened to your project team, but really do to so, is to repeat their views in good faith back to them.  This not only works in project team settings, it works in all relationships - with your children, clients, and spouses.  After views have been expressed, summarize the strands of opinion for everyone.  It will help you decide and it will help rally the team - even those who disagree with your decision.