Becoming a better listener

Listening is the most overlooked, misunderstood, and undervalued communication skill for many people. Being a good listener, however, is at least as important as being a good speaker, writer, or reader. In fact, listening may be the most important communication skill for anyone who works in a medical practice. This article offers seven specific techniques for listening more actively in conversation, whether that conversation is with a medical practice coworker, supervisor, or patient. It offers an active listening strategy for medical practice employees who are about to attend a continuing education or enrichment course, seminar, workshop, or lecture. It suggests a self-reflective exercise to help listeners engage with the material presented at educational programs. Finally, this article offers guidance for listening actively at medical practice staff meetings.