In college I took a philosophy course. I remember the Professor asking by show of hands, how many of you have had learn about public speaking? Everyone in class raised their hands. How many of you have taken a class in listening? No one raised their hands. “How can you be expected to learn if we haven’t taught you to listen…” The lecture went on from there about the ultimate value of listening and how listening can be more influential than any speech.

Here is an example of some good listeners. I had a chance to visit Auberry Park this week. Diane Mullins says that they are a tight knit site. Ger is doing a wonderful job as the associate for the morning and afternoon class, she responsible for 40 different children. Xor is very creative, likes to use nature to teach. This week one of the boys brought her a stick and she asked him what they should do with it. The little suggested that they paint the stick with chalk and make an art display. Xor agreed and a class art project was born. The teaching staff’s openness to the children resulted in a wonderful teachable moment connecting children to nature, learning, and encouraging creativity in a little boy. Way to go Ger, Xor, and Diane!

I also wanted to thank those of you that participated in the Internal Hiring Process Webinars last Friday. They feedback and suggestions were noted and I plan to take some action based on the feedback. After all it is important that we listen to you.

I know I need to continue to work on my own listening skills. But here are tips on being a good listener:
1. Be open. If you are willing to consider what the other side is saying then you are able to hear them.
2. Be present. Remove the distractions (e.g. cell phones).
3. Focus on understanding not responding. When you are busy formulating a response to what the person is saying you are not listening.
4. Consider the other person valuable not an interruption.

Respectfully,

John Allen
HR Chief