Listening skills and communication tips

In the beginning, ask more questions about the job rather than talk about yourself. Hear your potential client fully before responding. It can be very tempting to interrupt someone with a solution because you are excited to show them what you know. Resist the urge to start selling yourself at the beginning and listen to what they say.

Always show respect for the person you are meeting with and what he/she is saying. Even though you are the expert and might know more than these customers do… don't come off seeming arrogant. You may come across as demeaning or condescending and drive a potential client away.

• Look people in the eye when you are talking with them. It shows that you are confident in what you say.
• Give non-verbal clues that you are listening attentively to them. Look them in the eye when they talk. Nod and smile periodically. This will convey understanding without your having to interrupt them.
• Don't get to caught up in the tech talk; speak in words that your client can understand. Your clients will feel more empowered.
• Be concise; avoid long and drawn out stories. They'll be more apt to hear what you have to say.
• Take notes. Jot key points on paper so you can remember to address them appropriately.
• Ask them to give you more information on those points if you need to. Repeat back briefly to the client the main points you heard. Ask them if you left anything out.

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