Basic Listening Skills

Attention

• When you are listening to someone, it is important to give them your full attention. Multitasking or thinking of your counterpoint while the other person is still speaking will prevent you from truly listening to the ideas they are trying to convey. Instead, focus on the speaker: turn your body and face to him, and maintain casual eye contact.
  
  

Engagement

• It is also important to remain engaged in the discussion even when it's not your turn to talk. Lean toward the speaker, and allow your facial reactions and body language to convey that you are following what she is saying. When it is your turn to speak, begin with a paraphrase of her talking point. Not only does this show that you were listening, it offers an opportunity to catch any misunderstandings before the conversation progresses.
  
  

Etiquette

• When someone else is speaking, remember to wait your turn. Resist the urge to interrupt or interject your thoughts. If you would like to ask for more clarification on a subject, wait for the speaker to reach a natural pause.