Be a Better Listener!

You might think you're a great listener as long as you have good hearing. Not true! Most people listen, but they don't listen actively. Usually we're waiting for our turn in the conversation and are busy thinking about what we want to say instead of hearing what our conversation partner is saying. First, let the speaker know that you are listening to them. Say things like "uh, huh," or "mm-hmm." Next, be sure that you got the message right. Re-state their thought by reflecting it back to them in your own words. (You don’t want to sound like a parrot!) "So what you’re saying is…" or "it sounds like you felt really angry when…." Lastly, offer a summary at the end of the conversation: "Okay, so it sounds as though you feel really strongly that…. And we’ll do…to address your concerns." Using active listening skills have been shown to improve all sorts of relationships, from employees and supervisors to married couples. So try being a more active listener and improve your relationships! Keep reading at RevolutionHealth for more how-to tips.