Executives believe that 14 percent of each 40-hour workweek — a total of seven weeks a year — is wasted because of poor communication between staff and managers, according to a survey commissioned by our company. A key ingredient to effective communication, and ultimately greater productivity, is "active listening."

While enhancing listening skills can be a challenge, a little effort can go a long way. Here are a few tips to enhance your listening skills.

Stay Focused
Look directly at the person speaking. Instead of thinking about your response, listen to what's being said. Be aware of your body language. Poor posture, drumming fingers and tapping feet can break the connection between you and the speaker.

Take Notes
Bring a pen and paper to every meeting you attend. However, don't let your note-taking interfere with the flow of conversation. Write down key words, ideas, dates and activities in outline form. Review your notes immediately after the meeting while your thoughts are still top of mind.

Don't Interrupt
While it's tempting to break into the conversation when you have a point to make, let the person speaking finish his or her thought. One key principle: Learn to become comfortable with the moment or two of silence that may occur when someone pauses mid-thought. This isn't necessarily an invitation for you to interject.

Ask Questions
Agreeing with everything you hear does not mean you're a good listener. Active listening means asking questions to clarify salient points.

Minimize Distractions
Avoid using your computer while on the phone. The person on the other end of the line can hear the clicking! If you're conducting a meeting in your office, forward incoming calls to voice mail. In doing so, you will stay focused on the conversation and show the other person that he or she has your undivided attention.

Maintain an Open-Door Policy
Becoming a good listener also means making yourself available to your staff whenever possible. This provides employees a valuable outlet and resource, prompting them to feel comfortable turning to you for guidance. Acknowledging employee concerns lets them know their input and opinions are valued.

By taking an active approach to improving your listening skills, you're helping to build a strong foundation for effective communication with your team.