~~Listening is such an important skill that many of America’s top employers arrange for listening skills training for their employees. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Good listening skills produce better customer satisfaction, more productivity with fewer mistakes and better communication between staff which can lead to a more cooperative and inspired work environment.

First realize that there is a difference between hearing and listening. Hearing is a physical ability while listening is a skill.  Many people are not born good listeners and even if someone is a good listener they may sometimes have some bad habits that make it appear to others that they are not paying attention. The following tips will help you not only look like a better listener but actually become one.

Maintain eye contact – Don’t look out the window or around the room. When you are looking someone in the eye you have no choice but to pay attention to them.

Don’t interrupt – Wait until the speaker is finished talking and you are able to process what they have said before asking any questions. You can’t really listen if you’re thinking of what you are going to say next.

Nod your head – to show you understand what is being said to you. It is also ok to smile, laugh, frown or just be quiet.

Watch – for what’s not being said. Verbal clues such as facial expressions and body language to get the full impact of what is being expressed.

Stay focused – It’s easy to let your mind wander if you THINK you know what someone is going to say next. But you might be wrong! Reposition yourself to refocus if you find your mind wandering.

Listen for the main ideas – that the speaker wants to get across. These points are often made at the beginning or end of the talk. They may also be repeated several times. Pay special attention to phrases such as ‘the point is’ or ‘the thing to remember is’.

Ask questions – If you are not sure what someone has said…just ask! Really it’s ok. It’s also a good idea to repeat what the speaker said in your own words to make sure you understand. Keep in mind that you should listen 75% of the time and listen 25% of the time.

Remember – that time is on your side! Thoughts move about 4 times faster than speech. With practice you can simultaneously listen and think about what you are hearing; really UNDERSTAND it and give your feedback.