How to Improve Your Listening Skills

Listening skills can improve with practice.

Listening is a skill that may be learned and practiced. For some jobs, listening actively and taking in what is said to you is critical. Improving your listening skills helps you both professionally and personally. While it may take some practice, improving your listening skills can be done with persistence and attention to the task at hand. Improve your listening skills and see what the results are in your professional and personal life.

Instructions

1. Be close enough to the person you are listening to so you can hear clearly. Turn off any background noise such as a radio or telephone.

2. Concentrate on what is being said. Do not daydream; stay focused on the person to whom you are listening.

3. Be aware of gestures. This includes facial expressions, body language and tone.

4. Direct your eyes to the person talking to you. Ask questions to verify everything that you do not understand and write down the answers.

5. Be an active listener. Nod your head and use appropriate facial expressions.

6. Listen to the speaker and allow him to finish speaking before you phrase your question. You can not actively listen if you are thinking about what you are going to ask.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice

References

• University of Minnesota Duluth: Listening Skills