The lost art of listening … some things that should not have been forgotten were lost. History became legend. Legend became myth. Recently, I was talking to someone who was not very present in the conversation. Even though she would nod and say “Yeah” the whole time we communicated, her follow-up comments would reveal she wasn’t listening 100%.

Lost art of listening

Listening is an important skill – more so than one may realize.  For all we could say about being a good communicator, your ability to listen, not just hear, is a foundational area we probably all need help in.  Here are 7 action steps to increase your productivity by becoming a better listener.

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“Lost Art of Listening” Show Notes

In this episode, I share on the following topics:

• What listening has to do with productivity
• The dismal statistics of just how much we listen
• Hindrances to good listening
• The trap of assumptions
• 7 Action Steps to start becoming a better listener

1. Be present
2. Your heart is bigger than your ears
3. Involve your body
4. The problem may be right below your nose … your mouth!
5. Avoid distractions
6. Don’t assume anything
7. Listen anyway (dealing with conflict)

“Lost Art of Listening” Episode Resources

In this episode I mentioned several resources, including:

• Power Listening: Mastering the Most Critical Business Skill of All
• Listening exercise and test quoted in episode
• The Listener’s Manifesto

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Question: Have questions about the show?  Questions on active listening?  Or tricks you’ve learned to listen better?  Or topics you would like to hear me cover?  You can leave a comment below, or leave me a voicemail by clicking on the link to the right.