96. LISTEN UP for Better Communication

The secret of being a great communicator is to listen a whole lot more than you speak. Whether you are communicating with customers, coworkers, or other people, be the best listener you can be.

• L-earn.

  • View every listening experience as an opportunity to learn something.

• I-dentify.

  • Look for ways to identify with what you are hearing.

• S-ay nothing.

  • Keep quiet and listen.

• T-une in.

  • Give your full and undivided attention to the speaker.

• E-mpathize.

  • Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes, and show understanding and empathy.

• N-o judging.

  • Remain neutral while you are listening to the message.

• U-tilize the information you received to prepare your response.

• P-ause before you answer. Always think before you speak.