Active listening

Try starting up a conversation with somebody and listening to them for a while. Then try to remember what was said. It’s more difficult than you think, and the chances are you will only remember about half of what was said because we get distracted.

Active listening is a communication technique that requires the listener to concentrate, understand, respond and remember what is being said. To improve your listening skills when networking, practice making a conscious effort to not just hear the words that another person is saying but, more importantly, to understand the complete message. In order to do this you must pay attention to the other person very carefully. You cannot allow yourself to become distracted by anything else that may be going on around you, or by thinking about your reply to them. Nor can you allow yourself to get bored and lose focus on what the other person is saying.

Recognition

Give something back: a little bit of recognition in the form of a head nod or occasional ‘uh-huh’ lets the speaker know that you are still listening and helps keep you focused. As you heard earlier, nodding and maintaining eye contact also do this.

Paraphrasing

Paraphrasing is when you repeat back key pieces of information that the speaker has said, but in your own words. This demonstrates not only that you were listening, but that you have understood the speaker. It helps the speaker to be sure you have got the message and gives them an opportunity to correct any misunderstandings.