Do you want to become an excellent listener? Do you want a reputation for being very focused and attentive when people are speaking to you?
Here are some tips:
Empty your mind and stop thinking the moment that you decide to listen.
Give the person your full attention.
If you find yourself wandering from what is being said, gently nudge your focus back to the person.
If the conversation stalls, ask an open question related to what was said last.
Be very present. Again if you wander in the past or future, gently come back to now.
Listen for the underlying meaning not the literal words.
Paraphrase often ‘So you are saying that ……’
Look at the person’s eyes, the pupils in particular.
Get into your listening zone where this is no time, only a need to understand what is being said.
Keep your opinion to yourself.
Summarise when the person has finished. Don’t give advice without permission.
Practise when the opportunity arises which is often throughout the day.
Let me know how you go.
Paddy Spruce
03 9808 8990
