How Well Do You Listen?

The French philosopher Albert Camus once observed: "Great ideas come into the world as gently as doves. Perhaps then, if we listen attentively, we shall hear amid the uproar of empires and nations a faint flutter of wings, the gentle stirring of life and hope."

"These words are as appropriate today as they were half a century ago when they were first spoken," says Dr. Charles Dickson, a professor of human relations and business psychology.

"Listening is mostly an underdeveloped skill, but one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself for your future success and personal well-being. Studies tell us that 70 to 80 percent of our waking life is spent communicating on some level. Of that, nearly half is spent listening. Good listening is a skill that can be learned and improved. Like a musical instrument or sport," says Dickson, "it takes practice and dedication."

Here is Dickson's outline for good listening:

1. Listen for ideas, concepts.
2. Leave judgments for later.
3. Paint a mental picture of what you hear.
4. Don't interrupt.
5. Don't jump to conclusions.
6. Concentrate and evaluate.
7. Motivate people to tell you more.
8. Step into the other person's shoes.
9. Don't panic when there are silences.
10. Don't respond by changing the subject.

What to Do
"Think communication," suggests Dickson. "As you listen, keep in mind that you are about to learn something valuable; a small nugget of information, knowledge, or wisdom is about to be revealed. If you sense that nothing is happening, start asking questions. Be an information gatherer. It's the open road to discovery."