4 ways to be a better listener

If you have ever read anything that I have written, there is a good chance you have heard me mention communication. Communication is key in any business or work relationship, and is important if you are the low man on the totem pole or the head man in charge. Speaking well is very important but so is the ability to listen. If you want to be a better listener, here are a few tips to follow.

Pay attention

Have you ever tried to talk to someone while they are typing on a computer or looking at their phone? It makes you wonder just how much they are actually comprehending. You have probably been that person once or twice. Next time you are in a one-on-one conversation, make eye contact and remember to put away anything that could be a distraction.

Restate and summarize

A good way to let someone know that you are hearing what they have to say, is to periodically repeat their point back to them in your own words. Don’t be a robot who is just repeating exactly what they have heard, but listen, understand, and say it back for confirmation.

Give feedback

If the conversation is a tough one, use words of encouragement to let the speaker know you understand their feelings. If the speaker is excited, be excited with them! By showing you understand the emotion behind the message, your speaker will know that you’ve truly listened to what they have to say.

Ask questions

I know what you are thinking. If you talk, then you aren’t listening. Only ask questions to seek clarity about something that was said. When you “phone in” listening, you don’t care about the message or how it is conveyed. By asking for clarity, you are showing the speaker that you care and want to fully grasp what you are hearing.