Becoming an effective listener

Listening is the process of taking in information and synthesizing it into an understandable message. Clues to understanding the speaker in dude how things are said, what is not said, and nonverbal behavior. The difference between speaking and thinking speeds should be utilized to review, summarize, and reflect upon the speaker's points rather than to daydream. Physical distractions should be eliminated. Emotional and psychological distractions originating with the speaker or the listener should be discounted or compensated for. First impressions should be subjugated and judgment delayed until the speaker is finished. In conversation, give the other person a chance.