5 Ways to Improve Your Listening Skill

How would you feel if you told a personal story and found that the person you were talking to wasn't really listening? You probably won't be that excited.

Unfortunately, this is the case for many people. Most people are not good listeners. You are a good claim. The thing is, real listening takes action - more work than people are willing to do. Quality talks are about 'the give and take'. However, most people just want to give - that is, their words. Being on the receiving end as a listener may seem boring, but it is important.

When you care about someone and care about what they have to say, this is a sign of concern and respect. What is important is that sharing requires an act of will that sometimes contradicts what our minds do naturally - wander aimlessly and think about everything instead of listening - the greatest act of thinking.

However, for the sake of conversation, let's just say you might need some work on the listening section and after reading this article you decided to improve. Then what are some of the things you need to do to make it happen? How can you be a better listener?

1. Watch out

A good listener is attentive. They don't check their watch or phones or think about their meal plans. You focus and pay attention to what the other person is saying. This is called active listening.

Depending on the skills you need, “Active listening involves listening with all of your senses. Not only is it important to pay full attention to the speaker, but also that the 'active listener' listens – otherwise the speaker may conclude that what he is talking about doesn't matter to the listener.”

2. Avoid interrupting the speaker

I'm sure you don't want to be in the middle of a sentence just to see the other person hold their finger or open their mouth, ready to step into your incomplete words. It's rude and scary. You will likely feel the need to hurry up what you are saying just to finish your sentence.

Boycotting is a sign of disrespect. It basically means, "What I have to say is far more important than what you say." If you interrupt the speaker, he will feel frustrated, impulsive and insignificant.

3. Ask questions

Asking questions is one of the best ways to show that you care. If someone tells you about their ski trip to the Mammoth, don't answer "that's nice." It would show disinterest and disrespect. Instead, you could ask, "How long have you been skiing?" Did you find it difficult to learn? What is your favorite part of the trip? etc. The person will appreciate you and find you a great speaker just by asking a few questions.

4. Remember and follow

Being a good listener involves remembering what the speaker told you and then following up on it.

For example, in a recent conversation with your colleague Jacob, he told you that his wife had been promoted and that you were considering moving to New York. The next time you meet Jacob, you might want to say, “Hey, Jacob! What happened to your wife's promotion?” At this point Jacob will know that you really heard what he said and that you are interested in seeing how it goes. What a gift!

According to a new study, "People who ask questions, especially follow-up questions, can become better managers, get better jobs, and even win second dates."

5. Maintain eye contact

When someone talks, they usually say something they think makes sense. They don't want listeners to read a text, look at their nails, or bend over to pet a dog in the street. The speaker wants to get everyone's attention. It shows them that what they say has value.

Eye contact is very strong. He can convey many things without saying anything. With the Covid-19 pandemic, it is now more important than ever. People can't see your entire face, but they can definitely read your eyes.

By eye contact, I don't mean a hard, frightening look - it's enough just to look in the direction of the speaker. During the next conversation, be sure to maintain eye contact with your speaker. Avoid the temptation to look anywhere but her face.