by Karen Cortell Reisman | Feb 10, 2011 | Communication, Relationships
By Rachel Schwarz
You’ve heard the expression ‘a picture’s worth a thousand words’. Well, what’s the classic prompt for any picture? “SAY CHEESE!” What ends up being the most crucial part of those non-verbal memories? A smile!
In life, this tiny little gesture can turn your day around, and make those around you feel better and more excited about spending time with you.
Tip #2 to become a great listener is to smile. One of the simplest things that you can do to help convey to the speaker that you’re paying attention and interested in what they’re talking about is to smile.
I am not suggesting that you grin from ear to ear throughout a conversation- that’s overkill. Instead, if something is funny, laugh. If the speaker is describing a touching moment, respond with your facial gestures since you will not always have the opportunity to express yourself verbally.
Start thinking about how you are responding non-verbally in conversations. Is your friend or audience really understanding your feedback if you can’t respond out loud? If you’re
not bored, don’t look like you are! Put on a smile and let others know that you’re happy to be there- and to listen!
Remember to nod, smile, and check in next week for the third listening tip!
by Karen Cortell Reisman | Feb 4, 2011 | Communication, Lifestyle
By Rachel Schwarz
In my last blog, I discussed how important listening was to communication. Sometimes, the best way to communicate is to close your mouth and open your ears! It’s not quite as simple as that, however. This is the first of six blogs that I’ll be sharing with you that address little things you can do to improve your listening skills.
In her presentations, Karen discusses six crucial parts of listening. The first is to nod. Nod in an effort to show not only that you’re paying attention, but also that you understand that the person talking. Do NOT take this as an opportunity to zone out and trick others into thinking that you’re listening. This will almost certainly make you look foolish, and your credibility as a listener will go down the drain! Nodding is a part of listening, not a substitute.
Think nodding might cause you to nod off? Fear not! There are other things you can do to improve your listening!
Be mindful of what your facial expressions may be conveying to the person on the other side of the conversation. Nod when you understand, and you will automatically be more engaged in any interaction.
Stay tuned for next week – I’ll give you another hint on what you can do to engage your communicating comrade!
