An article I read recently from the Wall Street Journal focused on the issues that stemmed from not listening well to others and some tips on how to address.
Main Takeaways:
1. For an important conversation – write a list of things you want to say and questions to ask
2. Before a conversation with someone, take a piece of paper and brain dump your thoughts
3. During a conversation ask clarifying questions such as “What do you need from me right now?”
4. Take notes or make eye contact
5. Set a talk to listen ration of 25%:75%
6. Use an acronym like RASA R: Receive by paying attention A: Appreciate by making little noises S: Summarizing what the person says and A: Asking questions afterwards
Link to the article here: http://online.wsj.com/articles/tuning-in-how-to-listen-better-1406070727