How to Listen and Talk in a Beneficial Manner

By Steve Stephens

How To Listen So People Will Talk


LOOK AT PEOPLE WHEN THEY SPEAK TO YOU
If your eyes are focused elsewhere, it will appear that your mind is as well.


LEAN FORWARD AS YOU LISTEN.
Being on the "edge of your seat" shows that, more than just being kind, you are very interested in what they are saying.


GIVE FEEDBACK.
Respond by nodding and smiling. Ask questions. This lets the other person know that you were listening closely to what was said.


DON'T INTERRUPT OR CHANGE THE SUBJECT.
Let speakers finish their own sentences, and allow them to finish talking about the subject they're discussing, even if it's not your favorite.


REPEAT BACK TO THEM SOME OF THE THINGS THEY SAID.
This shows that you were listening. It is also validating and confirming.


COMPLIMENT THEM ON THEIR INSIGHTS AND WISDOM.
This will encourage them to continue sharing with you in the future.


SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION.
Thank them for sharing their thoughts with you.


How To Talk So People Will Listen


BE CLEAR.
Be specific and direct about what you want to communicate.


BE CONCISE.
If you take too long to get to your point, you will lose the other person's attention.


BE CONSIDERATE.
Treat your listener with courtesy and respect.


BE CONSISTENT.
Make sure your nonverbal message is consistent with your verbal message. Also, make sure your lifestyle is consistent with what you say.


BE COMFORTABLE.
If you are nervous or uptight, you will make others feel the same way.


BE CREDIBLE.
Make sure your facts are correct, and be careful about exaggeration.