subject: Good Communication Begins with Listening [print this page] Good Communication Begins with Listening Good Communication Begins with Listening
When we hear the word communication we automatically think of the spoken word. What we have to say to someone and how it is said. However, truly effective communication begins with being a good listener. When you master the art of effective listening, you are well on the road to having meaningful communication with colleagues and loved ones.
How many times have you been talking with someone and you are thinking ahead to your response rather than really hearing what the other person has to say? We have all been there. Someone tells about something that has happened to them, and our minds begin to scan our memory for a similar situation that we can share as well. So instead of giving them our full attention and really listening, we are planning our response.
Unfortunately this tends to happen as part of human nature. Becoming an effective listener is an art that needs to be perfected. Listening and really hearing what a person has to say can be difficult to do at times. We all let our minds wander so we need to master self control and really focus on the conversation.
Some ideas that may help you to become a more effective listener are:
Focus on the person. Look into their eyes and face. If you are busy doing something else not only will your mind wander, but the person you are talking to will get the feeling you don't really care about what they have to say. By giving the other person your complete attention you are confirming to them that what they have to say is important.
Ask questions. To show you are focusing on the conversation, ask questions and keep the other person engaged. By taking an active part of the conversation you can help the other person find a solution to their problem or just let them know you care.
Remember the conversation. Later that day or week, ask the person how they are and refer to the previous conversation. This will affirm to them that you were paying attention and you are concerned. Now, sometimes this will not be appropriate, but in most cases you will find that this is a great way to stay connected to people.
Most relationship problems both at work and at how could be avoided if people learned to communicate effectively. By learning to be an effective listener you are well on your way to becoming a good communicator.
