Friday, March 30, 2007. Editor: Jew and Goshawk

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What makes a good listener?

People spend a lot of time trying to become better speakers. But most spend little time improving their listening skills. Yet listening is probably the more important skill.

When you listen to people, you are communicating that you value them, their thoughts and their ideas. Become a better listener -- and everyone will want to talk with you.

Here are some ways to become a better listener:
☆Give the speaker your full attention. Concentrate on what the person is saying rather than thinking about what you want to say. You can think about 500 words per minute, but normal speaking speed is 135-150 words per minute. Unless you pay attention, your mind can easily wander?
☆Don't be distracted -- especially on the phone. Don't answer e-mails, read the newspaper, watch TV, etc. while holding a conversation.
☆Listen carefully to what is being said. Don't interrupt or cut the other person off. Don't finish the person's sentences as if you know what he or she is going to say next.

Word Bank
1. concentrate (v) 专心；集中注意力于
Jan really has to concentrate on her paper. She has to finish it today.
2. wander (v) 漫游
Mark just wandered around the city. He had no special place to go.
3. interrupt (v) 打断
Dad is talking now. don't interrupt him.
4. cut someone off (phr v) 中断(某人的)谈话
Jack always cuts people off when they are talking because he wants to talk.