Good listening skills are essential for good communication skills, especially in a professional setting. When you hear the word "communication," you might immediately think of the spoken word. That is only half of what communication encapsulates. Communication also means listening effectively to discern the meaning and message. As a good listener, you need to acknowledge who is speaking and follow up to show that you understood and value the communication. Use strategies for good listening skills to hone them.
Identify the Idea
Some speakers aren't always clear about their main objective in communicating. A good listener can determine what the main message in the communication is, says the National Capital Language Resource Center. As you listen, try to boil the words down to one main message that is clearly identifiable. As you continue, you'll be able to better understand and select a resolution.
Acknowledge the Speaker
Acknowledge the speaker to let him know that you are invested in the conversation and are listening. Business website MindTools.com notes that acknowledgment can be as small as a nod or tilt of the head. Position yourself so you are facing the speaker and provide concise feedback throughout, so the speaker understands that you are listening well. This encourages the speaker to continue, knowing that you value his words.
Finish the Idea
It can be easy to jump to conclusions when someone is speaking with you, especially when the idea she is presenting isn't clear. In order to reduced mixed messages and confusion, wait until she is finished speaking and presenting her idea to make your conclusions. Allow her to finish her thoughts and then validate them by parroting some of the same ideas back to her, for example, "It sounds like you are concerned about..." This proves that you have listened and understand her thoughts.
Ask Questions
Ask a series of questions immediately following the speech so you can make sure you understand all of the facets and ideas that were presented. Questions prove that you were listening and care to find a solution. The Raj Soin College of Business at Wright University notes that probing is effective as long as it doesn't put the speaker on the defensive, for example, asking how he could have thought about something in a certain way. Instead, ask for specific details that make the information clearer.
Follow Up
Once you leave the situation, your listening skills are not yet put to rest. Show that you listened and are pondering a solution by following up with your speaker. This lets her know that you are still working on things. When someone communicates an idea to you, take it seriously and do your best to resolve or shape the idea further.
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