Have you ever been introduced to someone, and just a few seconds later, you have no idea what their name is? Or do you find yourself so worried about the next thing you’re going to say, that you totally space out on what the other person is saying at the moment? It’s a common issue with most of us, but as a small business owner, it’s imperative that you fine-tune your listening skills in order to do your job well. After all, you can’t afford to mess up an important conversation with a prospective client. And you certainly don’t want to appear aloof or insensitive to colleagues or other professionals. Being a good listener not only helps you communicate better with others, but it makes others feel important in the conversation, and it goes a long way in furthering your business relationships. So how do you get better at listening? Here are some listening tips that can help you improve: Slow down. We are all so used to doing four things at once, also known as multitasking, that we carry that habit into our conversations and personal interactions. Force yourself, when carrying on a conversation, to focus on this one task only. Learn to compartmentalize, take a deep breath, and tune in to the person you are speaking with. Learn patience. One of my biggest problems is the tendency I have to interrupt. It’s not because I’m trying to be rude, it’s just that once an idea or thought pops into my head I feel like I have to get it out there before I forget it. So being patient is one of my biggest challenges. And it takes practice. Make sure that you speak only when the other person is finished, no matter how excited you are about joining in. Pay attention to details. Try to tap into one or two small details that the speaker shared with you and bring those up again in the conversation. This let’s them know you have heard what they have said. Ask them specific questions about their story, experience or ideas, and follow up with comments or ideas of your own. Don’t judge the speaker. So maybe you’ve just met someone and they begin sharing a political opinion that is contrary to your own. It’s natural to judge the entire person by what little information has been shared. Try not to make your mind up about someone immediately, and keep an open attitude and mind until you get a better idea about the person. Be careful not to misinterpret someone simply based on clashing viewpoints or opinions. Clarify an understanding. One of the best ways you can make sure that you are understanding the conversation is to rephrase what was just said. “So what I’m hearing is that you believe …” This makes sure you are both on the same page. This is helpful when a customer is trying to explain their concerns or needs, and it helps strangers feel understood and comfortable with you. Being a good listener isn’t always natural for some of us, but it’s definitely a skill you can fine-tune. With practice, you can listen well to your customers and develop strong professional relationships. | 
