Some ideas when listening to others

Here are some challenging questions and answers.

1. What can I say or do when I would like to engage in a conversation with a few others — but I am shy and quiet?

Listen carefully. Then, ask a question (possibly thought-provoking) in which others may be interested. A good question easily compensates for your quietness.

2. What if someone is “long-winded” and, aware or not, cannot limit his/her on-going, possibly repetitive remarks?

Simply half-raise your hand to get the speaker’s attention. Apologize briefly for the interruption, then politely change to a related topic that the speaker and the audience might enjoy. The listening audience will probably quietly thank you at the time — and maybe openly later.

3. What if someone expresses a strong, controversial opinion that is opposite to my point of view?

At the conclusion of his/her remarks, briefly express thanks in a respectful voice. Then, present your ideas with a calm voice, and hopefully with logic. Remember, “A soft answer turneth away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

4. What if a speaker to my group speaks so softly that I and others can hardly hear the message, if at all?

Calmly half-raise your hand early in the speech to catch his/her attention. Politely ask, “Excuse me, would you speak a little louder?” Remember, your speaker wants people to sufficiently hear. And, your audience will probably silently thank you.

5. What if a friend in a conversation with me is so definite about a subject and goes on and on. I don’t care much about his/her opinion, and I’m quite bored. How can I respond so that we can move on?

With kindness, simply say, “You’ve made your point.”

Don Kleinsmith is a professor emeritus from Adrian College where he has taught for 45 years. He can be reached at [email protected] or 517)-263-6357.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Don Kleinsmith: Some ideas when listening to others