“If we were supposed to talk more than we listen, we would have two tongues and one ear.” Mark Twain

Listening is not the same as hearing: in order to listen effectively you need to use more than just your ears. The 10 principles to become a good listener are:

1. Stop talking
2. Prepare yourself to listen
3. Put the speaker at ease
4. Remove distractions
5. Empathise
6. Be patient
7. Avoid personal prejudice
8. Listen to the tone
9. Listen for ideas – not just words
10. Wait and watch for non-verbal communication

 
 
 
listen
 
image source: Lysh Thinks