Are you a good listener?

Do you really listen when others talk or do you just hear what they are saying? Empathic listening is an active process to discern what people are saying. It is a powerful tool for building on relationships. When you take the time to listen, you communicate to the other person that they are an individual of worth and value. Empathic listening is one of the best ways to strengthen trust and rapport with others. It is easy to be an empathic listener, as long as you follow these key elements: • Be nonjudgmental • Give undivided attention (no doodling, answering cell phones, checking the time while the other individual is talking to you) • Listen carefully to what the person is saying (facts and feelings) • Allow silence for reflection (there does not always have to be spoken words-don’t let your anxiety force you to speak) • Use restatement to clarify messages Remember that empathic listening can lead to stronger relationships and trust among individuals.