Are you Hearing?

Are you Hearing?

Dominika Weston, MFIN

What is the difference between a skillful and a poor listeners? Do you know what to look for in order to be able to define one in each category? The art of communication requires patience and practice in order to  master it. We do not only exchange information when we write or speak, but also when we listen, use our body language or read. Our actions point to who we are.  You are a POOR LISTENER when you:  1. tap your foot while someone else is talking 2. try to finish someone’s sentence and make assumptions rather than listening actively 3. interrupt to disagree without letting other person finish or when you rush into correcting the other person’s statement 4. react emotionally to exchanged information 5. ignore non-verbal communication (body language) 6. focus on mannerism 7. talk more than actually listen A GOOD LISTENER: 1. makes eye contact with the speaker and nods sporadically 2. paraphrases and summarizes speaker’s words to ensure understanding 3. lets the speaker finish before stating his ground in a very calm and professional way 4. focuses on content of the message 5. remains open minded and refrains from judgement 6. pays attention to non-verbal communication 7. listens with intention to understand

Dominika Weston, MFIN