How to Succeed in Business: Listen!

I am very outgoing and love to talk, and my friends have told me that there are times when it seems I'm not really hearing what other people are trying to say.

Nobody ever listened his way out of a job. Listening is a vital skill in any field. Here are some tips to better listening.

1. Ask pertinent questions, Questions are the hallmark of a good listener.

2. Practice empathic listening. Quoting Stephen Covey's observation that "most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply."

3. Listen with more than just your ears. body language shows whether you really interest in others or not. Nodding occasionally, making eye contact, taking notes, and being fully engaged all demonstrate genuine concern for the person you're speaking with. Watch his or her facial expressions, eye contact, and hand gestures" to pick up on unspoken messages.

4. Share personal stories. Telling a short anecdote about something from your own life that's relevant to the discussion helps to break the ice, and makes you seem "more approachable and down-to-earth.

5. Don't interrupt, let people finish what they're saying before you pipe up.


6. Pause before you reply.

7. Eliminate distractions. Don't try to discuss an important subject while either you or the other person is distracted by other tasks. Suggest setting another time to talk, when both of you can concentrate on the topic at hand.

8. Don't give unsolicited advice. don't give advise if you are not asked to give advise.