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Author:
Sylvia Henderson
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Providing the people, programs, and resources that build knowledge, develop skills, and shape attitudes on professionalism, work ethics, and leadership in a diverse workforce.
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© Sylvia Henderson. Springboard Training. All rights reserved.
These syndicated columns are available for your publication by contacting the author at the e-mail link on the left side of this page, or by the contact information listed.
** NOT FOR REPRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTION in any form or format, at any time, without written permission from the author. **
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Listening Skills
When was the last time you listened to someone? I mean, really listened instead of simply hearing them? We are so inundated with information and messages during the course of our days that we’ve become immune to really listening.
Practice your listening skills the next time someone speaks to you using these techniques.
- Listen actively. Maintain eye contact with the person speaking to you.
- Participate enthusiastically. Ask questions and pay attention to the answers before you formulate your own response.
- Show that you are listening. Lean slightly forward. Nod your head periodically. Smile.
- Wait for the other person to finish speaking. Avoid interrupting them.
- Be in the moment. Avoid thinking of the five other things you should be doing while the person is speaking.
If you do not have time to listen at the moment, politely excuse yourself and say so. Do not make it a habit, though. The next time, you may find yourself needing someone to listen to you.
Bonus gift: Learn more about how to be an effective communicator at http://www.springboardtraining.com/articles___stuff.html.
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