How to Hone in Your Active Listening Skills

Be open in mind and body

  • Make the conscious effort to focus solely on the person speaking, block out any assumptions, background noise or other distractions .
  • Pay attention to speaker’s tone of voice, body language, words used, as these are also non verbal forms of communication.
  • Keep your posture open i.e. don’t cross your arms.

Paraphrase

  • Listen to what he’s said and put it into your own words.
  • Use phrases like “When you said… did you mean…”
  • Do this until she has confirmed that you understand her

Demonstrate that you are listening

  • Focus solely on what the speaker is saying. Do not think about what you are going to say next, stay present. The conversation will follow a logical flow after the speaker makes his point.
  • Make affirming gestures, nod, look her in the eyes without starring at them etc.
  • Allow the person to speak. Use the LEAPS technique Listen, Empathize, Ask, Paraphrase then Summarize.

 

140728 bpd logo clear backgroundThis business tip is sponsored by BPD Associates Limited, a JobsTT partner.   If you want support in developing yourself and/or your team on this topic, please visit www.bpdassociates.com.