Some people have a natural gift of Listening. Others have to work at it. Jeff Turner is one example of a good listener. I've had the pleasure of meeting Jeff a few times now, it's true what they say, when Jeff is talking to you in a crowded room, you feel like you are the only person around. This is Jeff talking to my daughter, AChrome21. He was explaining who Jeff Turner really is. We were all standing around laughing - Jeff was talking and focused on her.
Hank Baskett #84 of the Philadelphia Eagles is a friend of my daughter's. We got some time with him (while he was signing autographs) after The Eagles Training Camp.
A woman came over to him and said, "Mary's Mom is over there. She can't get to you". "I'll be right there" Hank replied.
When he was finished signing everyone's stuff (he does that).... he walked over to the woman. They embraced each other and tears flowed from her. Sobbing.
You could sense there was pain. It was a private moment, yet so touching to witness. Goosebumps. As you can see in this picture, Hank's eyes did not wander. He listened to her so focused that nothing else mattered.
It was a lesson for me. A reminder. Being a good listener is focus. I have to work at this, its not a natural thing for me. My eyes wander. I get distracted by other people around me. I interupt. Not good, but I try to work on it. I know its important for all facets of relationships. Clients, family, friends, servicepersons, etc.
I challenge you (and me!) to work on this today. Whomever you are with - LISTEN. No distractions.
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Hi Kim, if you are talking to a person, one can always tell if they are listening to you. If you notice their eyes wandering, you know they are looking for someone better to come along. LOL Great advice.
Everyone needs practice on listening, especially me! I can be very, very good at it, and then sometimes.....
I've realized that listening and asking questions at a social function is a great way to relax into a roomful of strangers.
Excellent point! I've noticed one should take note of opportunities to shush and listen. I practice with my KIDS and FAMILY! Also ever notice how annoying a person is when they try to finish your sentences for you??? That's a big peeve of mine! Great reminder Kim!
This is true. Listening makes the person talking to you feel like they are all that matters. At least this is what my wife tells me.
You have to listen with your mind as well as your ears so you can really hear what people are`saying. Being a good listener will take you far.
Great point in that listening and hearing are two different things completely. We have all had clients who we have told their homes are worth something only to be disapointed when it sells for almost full price. Want to say I told you but they listened but didn't hear.
Kim, I have to tell myself before I meet with clients to "shut-up" and listen. It worms for me!
Kim - Terrific post. Jeff is a great listener and I loved hearing that about Hank. One of the quotes that stuck with me from Inman was "listen four times more than you write." It was great meeting you.
Hi Kim - This is really good advice. I (too!) am one of those fidgety people who looks like they aren't listening even when they are. So not only should I listen more, but make it more apparent that I am listening. Kind of like reading with more focus... And writing with a bit more depth than GPTFS. (Sorry, I HAD to slip that in there, lol.)