Member-only story

How to be a Better Listener and Communicator

Jennifer McDougall
3 min readDec 9, 2021

Great communicators are frequently praised for their ability to command a room, deliver a powerful speech, or converse with anyone. Yet, while the skills mentioned above are unquestionably valuable and practical, the ability to listen is possibly the most undervalued aspect of communication.

How to be a Better Listener and Communicator

A good listener may make a person feel like they are the only person on the planet. But, on the other hand, you may sometimes express a thousand words without saying anything by being a thoroughly engaged audience for a colleague.

Here are six methods to improve your listening skills right now.

  1. Practice Mindful Patience — Above all things, becoming a better listener necessitates listening! When you talk over someone else or interrupt, it shows you aren't paying attention. Before starting a discussion, remember how important it is to allow the other person to speak for themselves. While listening, resist the desire to interrupt or even consider a retort. You'll find that if you practice patience and pay complete attention to the information you're getting, you'll catch up on many more subtle communication signs from the other side. They'll notice your focus and attentiveness, and they'll not only appreciate it, but they'll also be more receptive to your ideas and suggestions.

--

--

Jennifer McDougall
Jennifer McDougall

Written by Jennifer McDougall

Host of Life Refined podcast 🎙️ Personal Growth | Self-Improvement | Wellness 💡 Helping you level up your mindset & life. https://linktr.ee/jenmcdougall

No responses yet