· Pay attention.
o Give the speaker your undivided attention and acknowledge the message.
o Look at the speaker
o Put aside distracting thoughts and distracting environmental factors.
o Watch the body language of speaker
o Refrain from talking in a group setting.
· Show that you are listening.
o Use your own body language and gestures to convey your attention.
o Nod occasionally.
o Encourage the speaker to continue with small verbal comments like yes, and uh huh.
· Defer judgment.
o Interrupting is a waste of time as it frustrates the speaker and limits full understanding of the message.
o Allow the speaker to finish.
o Don’t interrupt with counter-arguments.
· Respond Appropriately.
o Active listening is a model for respect and understanding. You are gaining information and perspective.
o Be honest in your response.
o Give your opinions respectfully.