One of the best resolutions one can have is to become a better listener.
The words of Abraham Lincoln are perhaps even more profound today than when first penned: “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”
“Better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak out and remove all doubt.”
Listening better can give a greater insight into a situation and perhaps enable you to solve a problem before it becomes a collection issue.
Follow these suggestions to become a better listener:
- Stop talking! You have two ears and one mouth. Listen twice as much as you speak.
- Listen for the facts and listen for opinions. Know the difference.
- Put the talker at ease. Judge the content, not the person.
- Show you are interested in the speaker. Listen to understand rather than to reply.
- Minimize distractions.
- Be patient. Allow plenty of time. Do not interrupt.
- Ask questions and ask for clarifications. Be objective.
- Use pauses and silences so that you and the speaker may gather your thoughts.
- Empathize. Put yourself in another’s place so you can understand that point of view.
Remember: he who listens best, wins.
[ Related: The Ultimate Guide to Active Listening ]
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