Think about the last time someone really listened to you. It felt good, right? Being a good listener is more than just keeping quiet while the other person talks—it’s about engaging with them, understanding their perspective, and responding thoughtfully. Here are three simple ways you can upgrade your listening skills and make your conversations count.
Stay Present and Attentive
One of the fundamental aspects of good listening is being fully present. This means putting aside distractions like smartphones or even your own wandering thoughts. Focus on the speaker, maintain eye contact, and show that you are engaged.
Hold Back Immediate Judgement or Solutions
Often, when someone shares a problem or a story, the instinctive reaction is to immediately offer advice or a solution. However, true listening requires patience and restraint. Allow the speaker to finish their thoughts without interrupting. By not jumping to conclusions you give them the space to fully express themselves.
Reflect and Clarify
To show that you are genuinely engaged, practice active listening. This involves summarizing what you’ve heard and asking clarifying questions. For example, you might say, “It sounds like you’re saying… Is that right?” This not only helps you to confirm your understanding but also shows the speaker that their message is important to you.
