Tiona Snowden May 11, 2022
Effective listening. It is the key communicator when formulating relationships with your loved ones, friends, and peers. If you ask someone, they may hesitate at the thought of if they are an effective listener or not. Unfortunately, not everyone will listen at all times, but luckily there are a few tips when it comes to effective listening that will allow anyone to gather information.
The Importance of Effective Listening
Becoming an effective listener can create bonds with others without you realizing it. Trust, a better understanding of the information, and the reduction of conflict are a few situations that can arise as an effective listener. People enjoy talking so it is best to gather their trust by attending to them and listening thoroughly. Effective listening makes you a better communicator overall because now you understand how to speak with various individuals.
How to Become an Effective listener
Distractions
Put away anything that may distract you from the conversation. Electronic devices, books, and even other people can distract you from the person you are speaking with. Getting these distractions away from you will force you to pay attention to the speaker and increase attentiveness.
Make Eye Contact
Looking at the individual will let them know that you are focused on them. You do not need to stare at them the entire time, however. Slight eye contact will show interest and confidence while listening.
Interrupting
Interrupting someone can make them feel like you are not listening. To avoid this, wait for the right time to speak. Possibly when there is a short pause, or if the person asks for your input can allow the conversation to flow smoothly without conflict.
Use of Nonverbal Gestures
A few nonverbal gestures include; head nodding, facial expressions, body language, and touch. This is an effective form of listening becuase you can express yourself without interrupting the individual. Nonverbal expressions allow the speaker to visualize what you are thinking just by doing these nonverbal gestures.
Important Keys to Remember
Pay attention to the speaker, and try to get distracted. Making eye contact will express a sense of attentiveness and that you are following what the individual is saying. Remember to hold your input until the speaker asks or if there is a pause while communicating. Interrupting is disrespectful and selfish. Using nonverbal gestures can allow you to speak until spoken and will show the speaker that you are paying attention. If you follow along with some of the tips provided you will create a trusted bond through your effective listening skill. Remember to provide the same respect you would want from others.
