Listening is defined as giving one attention. The purpose is to listen and to understand. Verbal signals of a good listener include: “I am listening” cues, disclosures, validating statements, reflection or mirroring statements. Non-verbal signals include: good eye contact, facial expressions, body language, silence, or touching. Listening requires all your senses to observe and take in as much information from others to understand what they are saying.
Emphathize, metaphorically it can be like saying “walking around in another person’s shoes” because you are trying to see things through their life experiences. This is an important step because it helps to gain rapport and build trust with the other person.
Ask questions and encourage the other person by letting them know that you are interested. Finally, let the other person know that you have heard what they have said by paraphrasing ~ repeating back to them what you have heard.
Deep listening is miraculous for both listener and speaker. When someone receives us with open-hearted, non-judging, intensely interested listening, our spirits expand. ~ Sue Patton Thoele
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