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"Good relationships at the workplace are built on many qualities none of which is more important than being perceived as a good listener," reports Work & Family Life (July 2008).  The newsletter shares these recommendations from Brian Tracy and Ron Arden on improving your listening skills...

• Be Attentive.  Listen in silence.  Don't interrupt or allow yourself to be distracted.  Make eye contact with the speaker and use reassuring body language such as nods and head tilts.
• Pause Before You Reply.  Don't jump right in as soon as the person takes a breath.  Allow a few seconds of silence to exist.  The "pause" phase is especially important if the person you are listening to is excited, angry or unhappy.
• Ask Questions for Clarification.  Don't assume you know exactly what was meant.  Ask "How do you mean...?" or "What does that mean exactly?"  And, if you are prepared to commit yourself and wish to become an ally in the conversation, use words and phrases such as "Yes, without question," or "I agree absolutely."
• Say It In Your Own Words.  This is the proof that you were really paying attention. 

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