Rules for Listening: Person-to-Person
1. Stop talking!
2. Put the person who is talking at ease. Create a supportive environment! Look
directly at the speaker.
3. Show you are a good listener. Act like one!
v Sit up; even lean forward toward the speaker at times.
v Keep eye contact, but don’t stare.
v Smile when appropriate.
v Raise your eyebrows; nod your head.
4. React with verbal responses. Let the speaker know you are listening.
v “I see.”
v “Uh-huh, hmmm.”
v “That’s interesting.”
v “I didn’t know that.”
v “Oh!”
v “Is that right?”
v “Now let me see if I understand...” Rephrase.
5. Ask questions. This encourages the person speaking (who, what, where, why, when).
6. Be patient.
v Allow plenty of time. Do not interrupt.
v Don't shuffle papers, tap, doodle, or talk to someone else.
7. Take notes! If you are listening to directions, write them down!
8. Stop talking!
We have two ears and only one tongue, which may be a gentle hint that we should
listen more than we talk!
PROTEAM DREAMQUEST CURRICULUM
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