The ways to improve 'Listening Skills'.

     In this blog you will learn some positive habits that will help you to improve your listening skills. Just read step by step till the end.

 First of all, pay full attention to the speaker. This may need determination to . Concentration is helped not only by the alertness of the body but also of the mind. If you are determined to pay attention, you can train and discipline your body and mind to get into the listening mode.

   

    Secondly, a spoken message does not come only through the words. Therefore you must use your eyes to see as well as your ears to listen.  For clear and full understanding, non-verbal signs must also be considered.

•     Facial expression, gesture and posture
•    Tone and pitch of voice and speed of speaking. 

           Thirdly, show the speaker that you are listening; your posture, body language and eye contact must indicate interest, sympathy, attention and desire to understand.

A person with good listening ability:

• Reflects appropriate feelings in facial expression.
• Sits/stands in an attentive posture.
• Uses empathetic questioning technique. Asks open-ended questions, seeking information and clarifications.

                     

                       The following are the tips for good listening:

• Stop talking
• Put the speaker at ease. An uneasy, uncomfortable person does not speak clearly.
• Show a desire to listen. Your non-verbal behaviour must show that you are interested.
• Write down the main points and get them checked for correctness.
• Do not create or tolerate distractions. Calling or receiving others or allowing others to interrupt disturbs and irritates the speaker.
•  Be patient. The speaker may need time to say what she or he wants to say; some people are shy or nervous, they cannot easily find words.
• Ask questions at suitable moments to get a clear understanding. If you are not sure what the speaker is saying, then ask.It is quite acceptable to say, "Do you mean........?" and state what you have understood.
• Keep an open mind; do not jump to conclusions. Avoid making any judgement until the speaker has completed speaking.