attributes of a good listener

Attributes of a good listener

You cannot become a good listener by reading about listening. You need to have certain tools that will help you develop your listening skills. Think of a fellow student who listens carefully when you talk to him/her or when he/she talks with other students. What makes them a good listener? The following points should be observed for one to be a good listener:

1. Listen with the whole body, including eye contact and gestures such as nodding and smiling.
2. Ask thoughtful follow-up questions for thorough comprehension.
3. Avoid personal opinions and unnecessary interruption when listening to somebody.
4. Pay attention and do not be easily distracted while listening.
5. Think about what the speaker wants to say next.
6. Pick up on the emotions and feelings of the speaker.
7. Remember what was said in a speech or lecture and summarise it effectively.
8. Learn from a conversation and give positive reinforcement during the conversation.