So, you think you are you a good listener. Maybe maybe not.
So, you think you’re a good listener. Maybe you are. Maybe not.
Spend a day and practice listening and observing. Be diligent in your meetings and spend as little time as possible talking and more time asking, listening and observing.
In hallway conversations or business meetings, think about what your purpose is in this conversation then practice listening.
Here are 8 tips to becoming a good listener.
- Be curious, ask questions.
- Know your communication style.
- Understand and accept that communication is not a way to express your opinions–it is 2-way.
- Be observant, even over the phone. Watch the other person’s body language, interest level.
- Be aware of your body language.
- Stop talking.
- Be present.
- Be aware of your biases and perceptions.
Did you know that non-verbal communication speaks so loudly that the verbal communication often cannot be heard? Behaviorists say up to 90% of communication is non-verbal. A good listener pays attention to the speaker in words and non-verbal communications.
Okay, now how’d you do? Do you have the skill nailed or do you need to work on it more?
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