“Listening is as powerful a means of communication and influence as to talk well.” – John Marshall
Techniques to practice:
- Give Complete Attention: Do not multitask when you should be listening.
- Respond to the other person: Use both verbal and nonverbal responses. Nods and other gestures work, but must prove you actually heard the other person, and that it had an impact on you. Speak at approximately the same volume and intensity as the other person, Doing so will tlet them know they really got through.
- Communicate understanding: To say “I understand” is not enough. People need some sort of evidence or proof of understanding. Restate the gist of their idea or by asking a question which proves you know the main idea. The important point is not to repeat what they’ve said to prove you were listening, but to prove you understand. There is a difference. The difference in these two intentions communocates completely different messages.
- Communicate respect: Prove you take other views seriously. It seldom helps to tell people, “I appreciate your position” or “I know how you feel.” You have to prove it by being willing to communicate with others at their level of understanding and attitude.
“I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen.” – Ernest Hemingway
