Talking is only one side of communication. The other side is listening. The two go together to make for complete communication but I think that listening is more important because you first must gather information to converse, make a speech or write an email.

So what is good listening?

It is all these and more:

1. An interest in what the other person is saying. If you show interest then more likely you shall pay attention. And that leads to understanding.

2. Undivided attention to what is being said. If you have total attention for what is being said, you shall understand the message.

3. Comprehension. Do you understand what was being said? If not, you should
always clarify points.

4. Then you must also participate by asking for information. It is daunting if someone is speaking but the listener does not ask for more information nor add his or her own views. In other words discuss. Silence is not golden in this sense.

5. Don’t fidget, look away or look down on your toes when someone is talking to you. That means you don’t want to hear.

Someone once said that of all human skills, listening is the most important. He says that people feel wanted, loved and reassured when someone takes the time to listen.

Some of the most charming people are not good conversationalists. In fact they can fumble for words but they listen and that makes them such good counselors or friends.

Listening makes the person who is talking feel worthy. and respected.