“If you make listening and observation your occupation, you will gain much more than you can by talk.” –Robert Baden-Powell
7 Reasons Why You Should Actively Listen
It prevents you from missing important information
It allows you to consciously hear and take in what’s being said
It builds trust and develops stronger relationships
It can help avoid confusion, conflict, and misunderstanding
It allows you to learn and build more knowledge
It helps others enjoy speaking to you
It allows you to be a better communicator
7 Tips on How to Actively Listen
Maintain a sensible level of eye contact with whoever is speaking
Don’t interrupt
Be present, avoid preparing your response while they are speaking
Ask clarifying questions at an appropriate pause
Empathise with the person speaking to you, and withhold judgment
Notice and pay attention to the non-verbal clues
Give your full attention and demonstrate using nonverbal signs eg nodding, leaning in
Use silence effectively
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