151 Quick Ideas for Delegating and Decision Making

22How to Listen Effectively

Because listening is so important, how do we do a good job?

First, remember that listening is not hearing. Hearing is the active acquisition and translation of sound waves into meaningful concepts. Hearing is in the ears and then the mind.

Assignment

Practice some of these techniques on a regular basis, so you can develop an expertise in good, solid listening skills.

Listening is the mental activity of attending to someone else’s communication with the goal of gaining understanding. Here are some simple tips:

1. Focus on the speaker alone; tune out other stimuli.

2. Actively listen. Pay attention to the communication, and tune out other thoughts and concerns you are having.

3. Remember, if you are talking, you are ...