Communication skills are a basic set of abilities a person has, which allows them to interact with others effectively and efficiently. Communication skills are important within and outside the office environment. By actively listening, you can become aware of situations around you and may even enable you to pick up on extra information. Below are some ideas on how to improve communication skills with active listening.
Confidence
You talk about subjects with knowledge and insight. You understand the topic in discussion and your points are accurate.
Empathy
You communicate in a way that is clear to other people. You modify your language based on the knowledge of others and always avoid uncomfortable topics.
Feedback
You respond to people after they are finished speaking. Your feedback is appropriate and thoughtful.
Friendliness
You interact with people the way you would like to be interacted with. You smile when you speak and are open to feedback.
Listening
You do not interrupt people when they speak. You wait your turn and let others finish speaking before you begin your response.
Nonverbal communication
You maintain welcoming body language. You do not cross your arms or make mean faces. You remain engaged in the conversation.
What is active listening?
Active listening is a communication technique in which you pay close attention to what another person says. You reiterate and paraphrase the person’s words in order to fully understand what he/she is saying.
Once the person is finished speaking, you use your understanding of what has been said in order to provide relevant feedback. Your feedback should acknowledge points the previous person made when speaking and provide useful information in return.
How does active listening affect communication skills?
You can improve communication skills with active listening. Active listening affects your communication skills by making you an overall better communicator. You listen to people when they speak. You look engaged and understand what is being said. When it is time to respond, you paraphrase what the person said in order to make your comments more relevant. Your feedback is appropriate and helpful.
You can improve your active listening skills with practice. Practice with your friends and family first. They can give you honest feedback on whether you are actively listening. Ask them to keep a checklist of things you should be doing. At the end of the conversation, review the list and see where you need to improve.
Once you feel confident in active listening, begin utilizing your communication skills with people at work and social events. Others will notice the difference and they will in turn begin respecting you more, because active listening makes you more professional and respectful. This will help improve your communication skills with active listening.
Have you ever tried to improve communication skills with active listening? Let us know how you did? Did you follow any of these snippets of advice?
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