How To Be A Great Listener
Siti Nabilah binti Mohd Khizam
HSA0314 Study Skills (813)
Madam Siti Khadijah binti Muhammad
Semester 1 (2015/2016)
Centre for Foundation Studies
International Islamic University, Malaysia
In this modern era, listening to speech sometimes might get very boring. Sometimes we are not listening very well and whatever the input that had been shared by the speakers are not being adapted by us. Research reveals that we tend to remember just 25 percent of what we hear. Developing the ability to listen, really listen, helps to build strong social and professional relationships as well as memory. Here I would like to share the way on how to be a great listener. This is because a great listener is born by the way they adapt and understand a speakers speech.
First thing to remember, Look at the speaker. There's nothing that more quickly signals "I'm not paying attention" than staring over someone's head. Make eye contact to illustrate your respect and attention. Some people feel uncomfortable making "too much eye contact." Looking somewhere nearby, like between the eyes or at the nose is a good way to train yourself to make eye contact. In other words, it shows that you're listening. Nod frequently to encourage the speaker. Smile. Small words like "yes" and "right" will show that you're engaged in the conversation, that you're listening, and that you wish for the speaker to continue.
Second thing that you need to know is, listen to body language. A great deal of communication happens through body position and movement. Pay attention to the signals the person gives you. Also, avoid distractions. Whether it's a side conversation, your phone, or the cute barista, splitting your attention between the speaker and something else will signal that you're uninterested.
Third thing to do is, Do not interrupt. Even if someone is saying something you disagree with wildly, keep it civil. Wait for an opportune and tactful moment to voice your disagreement. Listening actively to your uncle's tirade against a politician you support at Thanksgiving will only provide you with the ammunition to thoroughly dismantle it later.