Inspiration
Messages from the Masters |
The poorest part of communication is listening! Mastering the art of listening will catapult you ahead of the pack. The following is a summary of 20 articles, and years of personal experiences, on the subject of listening: When others talk, do more than listen! Study their faces!! * Their emotions will be reflected in their facial expressions...from exasperation to concern. Move Closer In the midst of a conversation, a sudden background noise such as a whirring computer printer or a sputtering vehicle engine can interfere. * That's when you should reduce the distance between you and the speaker. Set The Stage * If you invite someone into your office, don't seat them in a plain metal chair while you're planted in an oversized leather seat. Instead, arrange for both of you to sit in the same types of chairs. Let Your Eyes Wander Don't assume you must maintain eye contact 100 percent of the time. Such intent staring can make a speaker self-conscious. * Once in awhile, glance away to think or process something you hear. Then remember once you disconnect eye contact, restore it soon. Calm Down If you're itching to interrupt, it will show in your body language. You may sway from side to side or nod too much, as if to say "Yes, you've made your point; now you're repeating yourself." This can make a speaker feel rushed to finish, skipping key information. Listen for understanding rather than listening to respond. That way, you'll keep an open posture. You'll avoid crossing your arms to indicate you're closed to the information coming in. The Result It will be clear that you're listening with the intention of learning, rather than waiting for the right moment to rebut. Go The Distance Once you strike an attentive listening pose, stick to it! If you quickly lose interest, it may show in the way you recline in your chair. * You can tell when impatient listeners stop listening and start thinking of what they want to say next. How? They appear less riveted to the speaker and more preoccupied. They may pounce on any pause to jump in and redirect the conversation. Moving beyond mere "eye contact" will forge and amazing bond between you and your prospective customer! All the best,Paul J. Meyer You can receive more information about Paul J. Meyer and save 20-40% on his products at www.yoursuccessstore.com. Paul J. Meyer Copyright © 1999 Paul J. Meyer ALL RIGHTS RESERVED |