Can you really listen?

People like to talk and unfortunately, they forget to listen, really listen to what others say. Active listening is both an art and the art of a genuine two-way communication. Whether you are a CEO or a car, good listening skills will make you a better communicator, negotiator, and planner.

So, you say you are listening

If you could videotape of your daily activities, including your tete-a-tetes with family, friends and work colleagues, you should be ashamed of how you interrupt in the middle of their speeches, or how you rush finish their sentences Them. This reeks of arrogance and a negligent attitude to the feelings of others. You have to admit that what they have to say is as important as what you want to blurt out.

Have you thought about how you immediately dismiss a child's attempts to communicate with you? Maybe you think that what the child says is not important because it is just a kid trying to say something. There are more important things to do than to listen to a kid, and this is a big mistake.

When a child is talking to you, stop what you are doing. Look at his watch and body language and facial expressions, if it is happy, sad, or frightened. Hold your tongue and let him do his work and answers, even single syllable. Who let him know that you are listening and interested in what he has to say and encourage them to tell you more. From these episodes, you should be able to know how your child is doing and what assistance they need.

The same is required of you at work. When colleagues drop by your table in the cafeteria during the lunch hour, you might as well be ready to listen than talk. You do not have this idea that listening to your colleagues is very close and let your mind wander elsewhere. Listen actively with all your senses. Do not leave noise from the other tables that you disrupt. Also ask questions, if you want to be sure you understand what your friend is trying to tell you.

How to Listen

Active listening is important during the meetings. Sometimes, it can not be allowed when there are many distractions - the hum of the copier, high heels clicking on the floor, and a multitude of other background noises. "Disconnect", and concentrate on the ongoing debate.

Ask yourself questions like: "What is the speaker?" Or "What is he telling me?" Give your opinion asking him to elaborate or give us more examples. Do not interrupt. Doing so may oppose the speaker. It would be a disaster if it is a customer.

Just to relax and take everything you fancy words, and to analyze what is said and unsaid. Of the hand gestures, body movements, facial expressions and prove to be more than words. Focus, observe and analyse. If you really want to listen, you have to make eye contact, to answer indicates that you are listening, asking questions, encouraging the speaker to develop and give some examples, and always thank the person for his share ideas and thoughts.