University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus

Communication Tips:

• Don't judge
• Deal with present behavior
• Body language is important
• Use "I" messages
• Choose words carefully
• Avoid questions designed to attack
• Utilize the power of silence and delayed response
• Don't be afraid to say "You might be right"
• Avoid interpreting others' motives

Effective Listening Skills:

• Stop talking
• Avoid distractions
• Concentrate on what the other person is saying
• Look for the underlying feelings in the message
• Provide feedback to the sender
• Maintain proper eye contact and body posture
• Communicate attentiveness by use of eyes - - don't glare
• Suspend judgment while you are listening
• Don't jump to conclusions
• Repeat your understanding of the feelings and content
• Don't let other person "push your buttons"
• Don't interrupt or finish sentences for others