How to be a Good Listener?
Most people listen to RESPOND.
Good listeners hears not just what is said, but also what is not said.
We listen with our ears and hearts, watch the body language and respect the person who speaks.
Here are 7 tips on how to be a skilled listener:-
1 – EYE CONTACT – this shows that you are paying attention; however, you may look away sometimes to avoid being too ‘intimidated’ with the other person who is talking.
2 – BE INTERESTED – stay attentive, nod your head and repeat important words, whenever possible to show that you understand.
3 – INTERRUPT LATER – although you may voice out your point of view at times, however, if the other person is telling you a long story… just be patient and ask for details later.
4 – ASK RELEVANT QUESTIONS – do not ask 50 questions just to be sure of certain things. Asking questions if an excellent way to understand better of the situation and guide the conversation through.
5 – SUMMARIZE – Be objective, do not judge or criticize the person who is talking. Repeat the message in your own words and check the clarity of the message too.
6 – ENCOURAGE – Use appropriate words such as, “I understand”, “I see”, “Yes”… to show that you are attending to the speaker.
7 – EMPHATIZE – Your job is to listen not to criticize… understand the speaker’s feelings, even you disagree with what he/she is saying.
Be a good listener, and a great communicator!