Let's quickly talk about the attending skill. Here are four listening techniques you can start using for yourself if you don't already use them. Number one, high contact. The expected amount of eye contact varies from culture to culture, but appropriate eye contact is important. It shows the other person that you are engaged in the conversation and interested in what they have to say. Number two, a posture of involvement.

This could be standing or sitting, perhaps leaning forward with the body facing the speaker. body position clearly indicates attention and interest. Number three, ignoring potential distractions. Potential distractions include phones, computers, other people walking past As well as your own thoughts, try to focus your full attention on the person speaking like a laser beam. Number four, encouragement. total silence is often taken as a sign of boredom or inattention.

The speaker needs occasional encouragement in the form of a ha, oh, hmm. I see. You don't say and then what happened, and etc, etc. These do not imply agreement or disagreement, just attention. Now, I know these techniques are very simple, but you know, the simple things are usually the most powerful. If you already use these techniques, then go out and teach them to other people.

And for those who weren't familiar with them, go out and start practicing and using them and gain new perspective and level up your listening abilities.