Active listening is one of the most important skills that an individual should have when it comes to having a conversation. How well people listen enhances their effectiveness in performing duties as well as growing relationships among the people they communicate with. People listen to obtain information, to understand concepts, to learn, or to enjoy. Research indicates that most people only remember about 25 percent of what they hear. However, every individual should strive to improve his or her listening skills because it is instrumental in improving productivity, influence, or persuasion ability during a conversation. Good listening skills work to avoid any instances of misunderstanding that may lead to conflicts during a conversation.
Effective communication skills require proper self-awareness, which makes one develop a lasting impression with others during the conversation. For one to improve his or her listening skills, active listening is important. It involves hearing not only the words expressed by the other person but also the message being communicated. Paying attention without getting distracted by things going on in the surrounding is important because it enables one to get every detail of the conversation. It would not be proper to engage in counter arguments when the other person is still talking because this only works to curtail the conversation. When the other person is still talking, it is inappropriate to get bored in the middle of the conversation because it will make him lose focus. In the event that one is losing concentration on what the other person is saying, it is advisable to repeat the other person’s words mentally in order to reinforce the message in the brain.
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Nothing makes the conversation as interesting as knowing that both parties are listening and are happy with the direction of the conversation. The conversation is more enjoyable when each person knows that the other individual understands their points and arguments, which involves giving comments and asking questions about the points raised. It is normally awkward talking to a person who seems not to understand anything. One begins to wonder whether it is even worthwhile talking to the other person in the first place. Such instances kill the smooth process of having a healthy and fruitful conversation. One just wonders if they are really talking to a human being or a brick wall. Body language speaks a lot during a conversation because it acts as a sign of approval and acknowledgement. A simple nod of the head would mean that one agrees with the arguments of the other person, which encourages the other person to continue giving points. Use of body language also affirms that one is listening and paying attention to the direction of the conversation.
Response should be given in such a manner that it encourages the other person to continue talking and giving more information that may be important in the conversation. Nodding the head and occasionally asking questions about the issues discussed make each person to get interested and become more consumed with the conversation. Making a recap of what had been said earlier also builds confidence in both parties because it acts as an affirmation that the points raised are vital and are worth remembering. Active listening skills are instrumental in making one pay close attention and understand whatever is being said before giving a relevant and deserving response. Interestingly, active listening can make the speaker believe that someone is listening and agreeing with his or her points even if that is not the case. When the speaker sees that someone is keenly listening and nodding the head, he or she will assume that the conversation is smooth and all points are taken positively.
The use of body language such as smiles and gestures encourages the speaker to continue giving his or her points even if one’s mind may be far away. Such gestures only serve to show the speaker that they are appreciated and that their points do matter in the conversation. People’s judgments, beliefs, and assumptions can greatly curtain what is heard during the conversation. In this case, active listening skills makes one to only focus on what is being said and scrutinize them as they are without subjecting them to stereotypical beliefs and assumptions. Active listening techniques enables an individual to hear the points and then ask question such as “what am I hearing?” at the back of the mind. It makes the listener to keep the points raised in memory and even develop relevant response to the speaker. In the event that one becomes emotional during the conversation because of the points raised, active listening skills will enable him or her to respond tactfully without initiating a confrontation. Asking for elaboration and engaging with the other person works to save the situation.
Conclusion
Active listening skills work to ensure respect and understanding between people involved in the conversation. It teaches people to understand that there is nothing to be gained in attacking or aggressively confronting the other speaker just because of a disagreement over an argument. Active listening ensures a smooth and successful communication since both parties end up getting the information they need out of the conversation. Being an active listener takes a lot of concentration and determination but it works to build a person’s self-worth and awareness during a conversation.
