Being a great listener shows respect, kindness, and trust. While good listening skills may not come naturally, they can be learned. Here are some tips!
- Focus on the Speaker. Give the speaker your full attention. Eliminate distractions by turning away from the television or computer and putting down your phone. Make eye contact.
- Use Positive Body Language. Lean forward slightly to show interest and engagement. Keep an open posture by avoiding crossed arms, and try not to fidget, as it may suggest impatience or disinterest.
- Show That You Care. Listen to the speaker’s words and their feelings. Instead of planning your response, ask yourself:
- What is this person trying to tell me?
- How are they feeling?
- Do they need encouragement, advice, or simply
someone to listen?
- Don’t Interrupt. Allow the speaker to finish before responding. If you accidentally interrupt, apologize, invite them to continue, and take a brief moment to reflect on what they said before responding.
- Communicate Clearly. Summarize the speaker’s main points in your own words. Ask thoughtful questions if something isn’t clear. This helps prevent misunderstandings.
- Resist the urge to change the subject or make the conversation about yourself. Give the speaker time to express their thoughts. The conversation will become more balanced once they feel heard.
Listening is one of the greatest gifts you can give another person. Strong listening skills build trust, strengthen relationships, and improve communication.