Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques 238. AMA: Why Listening Might Be Your Most Powerful Skill
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Oct 28, 2025 Discover the power of listening in transforming conversations and deepening connections. Learn about common barriers to effective listening and techniques like pace, space, and grace to enhance focus. Explore nonverbal signals that show you're engaged and the importance of paraphrasing to improve understanding. Matt answers listener questions on slowing down conversations and developing targeted communication skills. This engaging discussion highlights that true communication begins with active listening.
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Why Listening Usually Fails
- Listening often fails because we only get the gist and start rehearsing our response instead of staying present.
- The three Ps — physical, physiological, psychological — regularly block deep listening and reduce fidelity.
Use Pace, Space, And Grace
- Slow down conversations by managing pace, creating mental and physical space, and giving yourself grace to be present.
- Schedule quiet times, change locations, and tell yourself "I need to be here now" to improve listening.
Feedback When Support Was Needed
- Matt recounts a moment when he offered critique instead of support after a meeting because he wasn't fully present.
- He learned that slowing down and listening beyond words would have revealed the colleague's need for support.
