Although you may consider yourself a clear and concise speaker, your conversations might feel incomplete if you're not effectively listening to what other parties have to say. Improve your listening skills to ensure you understand the issues, comprehend opposite points of view and drive your message home successfully.
Eliminate Distractions
Remove any distractions that will pull your focus from the conversation to be certain you're listening to what the other party has to say. Utah State University recommends speaking in a quiet location to reduce as much background noise as possible. Turn off, put down or remove items such as the television, computer, cell phone or newspaper so you'll be free to concentrate on the discussion.
Catch Nonverbal Cues
Watch the other party for signs of nonverbal communication, such as eye contact, facial expressions, body positioning and hand gestures. The speaker's physical demeanor will provide clues to help you recognize key points or understand her true feelings. She may make direct eye contact with you, raise her eyebrows, lean forward, wave her hands or point a finger if she's trying to make an important point.
Repeat the Point
Show the other party that you're paying attention to the conversation and absorbing what he has to say by reiterating his main points. Repeating what the speaker says in your own words will not only ensure you've heard his statements correctly, but will also show your support and encourage him to continue expressing his ideas or feelings, notes the University of Minnesota Extension. Wait until the speaker has finished talking to summarize the message or else you may give the impression that you're rushing him.
Anticipate Ideas
If you find yourself losing focus during a speech or lecture, stay alert by anticipating what the speaker will say next. Whenever the speaker pauses or completes a section of her outline, mentally summarize what she said, and attempt to figure out what she'll say next. A wrong guess will also encourage you to listen better, because you'll be curious about why you were incorrect. Take advantage of pauses in the speech, and ask questions to clarify confusing points if the speaker encourages participation.
Be Polite
A good listener will be respectful while the other party is speaking. You'll miss out on key information if you consistently interrupt the other person because you're trying to argue a point, ask a question or discuss a different topic. As you're listening to the other party speak, avoid thinking about what you're going to say in response until he's done talking. If you're concentrating on your statement, you're not truly listening to the point he's making.
References
- University of Missouri Extension: Listening, Our Most Used Communication Skill
- Utah State University: Listening Skills for Lectures
- Help Guide: Nonverbal Communication Skills
- University of Minnesota Extension: Listening Skills
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Keys to Improving Your Listening Skills
Member Comments