Happy New Year!

As we start a new year, it is the perfect time to think about our professional goals, too! Setting resolutions is a great way to commit to making positive changes in our professional lives. Here are some ideas to get you started!

Resolution 1:

I will strive to improve my communication skills by actively listening to others and taking the time to ask clarifying questions whenever needed.

Active listening is an important skill to use when communicating with others. It involves paying attention to the speaker, maintaining eye contact, and listening with an open mind. To actively listen, you should also avoid making assumptions or judgments, ask questions to clarify what the speaker is saying, and provide feedback to let them know you are engaged in the conversation. Additionally, try to provide supportive comments and restate the speaker’s main points to show understanding. By actively listening, you can create a more meaningful and productive conversation.

You’ve probably noticed that I’ve referenced “clarifying questions” twice…and for good reason! Through the years, I cannot tell you how many times team members have said to me that they do not feel comfortable asking questions for fear of being seen as “uneducated” or “incapable.”

Asking questions is a great way