Ironically,
this communication tip is not about speaking. It's about not
speaking.
The lost art of listening is one of the best skills to cultivate
if you want to be a good libertarian communicator. Before you
start talking about libertarian ideas, stop! Stop and listen --
really listen -- to what the other person has to say.
Don't just close your mouth and hold your breath, waiting for
the other person to pause so you can jump in. The other person
can tell if you're really listening. Breathe and pay attention.
Listening is an active process, and if you truly listen,
you will reap a wealth of benefits...
1) You can find out misconceptions the other
person has about libertarianism and nip them in the bud.
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AT TOP OF NEXT COLUMN
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2)
You hear the other person's concerns, so that you can address
them directly. This gives you an opportunity for rapport
-- one of the greatest enhancers of communication.
3) You put the other person at ease. He or
she will feel more comfortable and accepted, and will thus be
more receptive to your ideas. When you show respect for other
people, they will be more likely to show respect for you.
Sounds simple?
Try
it. You'll find that: 1) It's harder than it sounds, and 2)
It works -- amazingly well.
*
* *
SUGGESTION:
Carole Ann Rand explores these ideas further on the audio tape,
"Assertive
Listening: The Ear Is Mightier Than the Mouth."
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