How to Master Listening Skills

Communication is one of the most important skills employers want in a new hire. And although colleges and classrooms teach writing and oral presenting techniques, very few of them, if any, teach listening skills. We sometimes believe it to be a passive act and therefore convince ourselves that this skill does not need sharpening. Follow these steps to master listening skills and be a stand out at work, home or your next interview.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Understand that listening is a communication skill that needs to be sharpened just like public speaking and requires extensive practice. Different types of listening include discriminatory such as when your mechanic works on your car and listens for specific noises; therapeutic whereby you listen to your friend who has come to you to be consoled or advised on a personal matter; comprehensive such as when you listen in class during a lecture; and critical when you listen to a potential candidate running for political office. Know your circumstances and engage in each type.
2. Free the environment of distractions. Today more than ever we are constantly getting the news, weather and information from cell phones and other electronic devices. No matter what type of listening you are doing or whether you are in a meeting or at home with your spouse, turn these items off or leave them somewhere when you are engaged in important discussions. Chances are whoever and whatever is contacting you can wait.
3. Take notes, paraphrase, ask questions. If you have the opportunity to do these, then do it.
4. Practice this skill through listening workshops, public speaking groups, or on your own. Search the Internet for upcoming events in your area. Toastmasters is a popular organization and has many meeting locales.

Tips & Warnings

• Volunteer to take meeting minutes. This is a great way to practice listening because as the scribe you are responsible for everything said.
• Treat listening as important a communication skill as any other and you will be on your way to mastering listening skills.

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