The Power of Visual Listening

 A concept I teach frequently in my workshops is called ‘visual listening’. 

Oftentimes, we rely on our ears for explicit information either through words or sounds. While both of these are important in communication, listening with our eyes can be an incredibly powerful tool – particularly in video settings.

When I work with clients, particularly in one on one settings, I am constantly picking up on small details with my eyes. I might pick up on a repeated hand-to-face motion, or a shiftiness in their eye contact, perhaps it’s a general drooping of the posture or a tendency to lean back and away from the lens when it would be more engaging to lean slightly forwards.

Picking up on small nonverbal behaviors is a great way to get a temperature check on a group audience as well. Are you noticing a general agitation in the group? Maybe you need to lead a quick group stretch or check in. Is one person in particular moving their hands around their desk area? This might signal they are distracted from what you, or someone else on the call is saying.

In such circumstances, it is important not to jump to conclusions. Rather, you want to take note of these observations and use them to increase inclusivity in the meeting. Maybe you call on someone to see if they have any questions, or any thoughts to add. Hearing your name is a sure way to feel seen and heard and most often jolts others to attention as well.

Even in virtual settings, there are nonverbal cues on full display. Our postures, upper bodies and faces share expressions that are valuable to observe and can enrich any virtual conversation.

Challenge yourself to listen with your eyes in your next meeting. What might you have been missing?