Listening Tip

Finishing other people’s sentences is one of the most common aggressive listening tactics busy business people make. While our intentions are usually innocent—we want to help move the conversation forward more rapidly—the person on the other side of the conversation will often consider us rude, annoying and possibly even arrogant. That’s not the best way to build a positive business relationship, or any other relationship for that matter.

The fact that we’ve got lots to do in very little time, we’re naturally “make it happen” kinds of people and “time is money” does not matter to the other person in the conversation. As communicators, it’s our job to make sure we do it right.

Try this three-element strategy

Like a three-legged stool, three elements give the strategy stability. Use only one or two and you may well fall flat on your face.

Body language is important

Sit back and make distinct eye contact. Doing at least three physical moves will remind you that you are moving into listening mode, and it will also demonstrate to the other person that you’re focusing and paying attention to them.

There are learnable listening techniques

Before launching into a response, repeat a key word or phrase that was just said. Better still; ask a question that probes deeper. This helps ensure your understanding of what they are trying to express.

Your listening intention affects how you perceive, and are perceived

Before you enter into a conversation, always have a powerful listening intention in mind that will keep you attitudinally, mentally, physically and emotionally on track. For example, your intention might be to find out something that will help you understand this person and their business like never before.

I’m sure by now, you’ve figured out that you can take this three-element strategic template and create endless personalized strategies for yourself.

Try this out and let me know how it works out for you!