Change always feels uncomfortable at first. When we learn to drive, it takes a lot of practice before it becomes second nature. We need to take it slowly at first, and at work, that is not always easy.

One way to help you on your journey to improving listening skills is to practice outside of work, with family and friends. For example, if you have a young child at home who has something on their mind, do you sometimes half listen while watching TV, or doing some household chore?

Here is the perfect opportunity to practice what you have learned about active listening skills. Schedule some one to one time with your child on a regular basis, such as bedtime, where they have your undivided attention and you won't be interrupted.

This channel of communication will become invaluable as they get older, and you will be able to discuss a range of challenging issues as they reach adulthood.

The same approach pays dividends in a work scenario. Schedule some regular, uninterrupted time with each of your employees so that you can listen to their concerns and coach or mentor them.

Managers (and parents!) often make the mistake of making time when something goes wrong, or a problem arises - and this automatically puts the employee on the defensive.

Your employee may not always have a pressing issue, but keeping a channel of communication open is key - and it is an ideal time to give praise for a job well done.

I'd guess that the training stopped at theory and didn't add a practice component. We always provide ample time in our The Fluent Listener webinar and workshop for people to try on what they've learned. You're right it is hard to put new info into application.