2. Listening
Listening is an integral part of
communication. Without it, communication
cannot take place. As much focus needs to
be placed on listening as on speaking.
3. Guide to Being a Good Listener
1. Be ready and willing to listen – clear your mind of distractions
and devote yourself to what is being said. Do not daydream or let
your mind wander.
2. Act like a good listener – look directly at the speaker, lean
forward, give the speaker your undivided attention.
3. Respond – nod, smile, or use other appropriate facial
expressions to let the speaker know you understand the message.
Ask questions when you do not understand or when you need
further clarification.
4. Guide to Being a Good Listener
4. Concentrate on what the other person is
saying - you cannot be a good listener if you are
focusing on what you will say next, or getting your
own point(s) across. Concentrate on the words,
ideas, and feelings that the person is trying to
convey to you.
5. Tune in to the non-verbal message - pay
attention to tone of voice, body language, gestures,
facial expressions and other non – verbal cues to
help you understand the total message.
5. Guide to Being a Good Listener
6. Paraphrase for clarity – check to see that you have
understood the speakers real meaning by restating
what you heard in your own words. This gives the
sender the chance to correct any misconceptions, but
also gives them the sense that you really are listening
and care about what is being said.
7. Keep an open mind – be receptive to what the
speaker has to say, and do not allow personal attitudes
to influence your interpretation of words. Wait until
you have heard the whole message before forming a
judgment on it.
6. “I know you believe you
understand what you think I
said, but I am not sure you
realize that what you hear is
not what I meant”
