How to Listen So That People Will Talk

by Mary Hartley

People often assume that listening is easy, yet, it's the least understood communication skill, as well as the most used. We spend 9 per cent of our time writing, 16 per cent reading, 35 per cent talking and 40 per cent listening, yet many of us make little effort to learn or develop listening skills. Poor listening is the cause of communication breakdowns in every area of life. This book suggests effective ways in which to become a better listener. Topics covered understanding points of view - yours and others' communication techniques and rules; difference between hearing and listening; establishing rapport and setting boundaries; body language; how to respond, with and without words; taking risks and expressing feelings; and giving feedback.

Paperback

First published June 1, 2006

About the author

I am a writer, presenter and personal development coach specialising in people skills and communication. I am a CIPD-qualified trainer with a wide range of experience and expertise in leading workshops and training courses covering all aspects of personal development.

I have published a range of books on subjects such as stress management, assertiveness, managing anger and listening skills. I have been quoted in publications such as the Daily Mail, The Times, MailOnline, The Sun and teenage magazines and have been interviewed on a range of national and local radio stations, including the BBC and Capital Radio and have acted as consultant to the BBC Learning Zone. My books are included in reading lists of colleges, universities and NHS websites.

My books offer practical, realistic advice and include self-assessment materials, exercises and practical tips to increase your confidence and self-esteem. They focus on ways of developing a positive style of behaviour based on self-respect and respecting others.

I have persuaded angry printers and engineers to embrace change,have encouraged teachers, administrators, technicians to become more assertive and have helped staff who were heading for burnout to manage their levels of stress. My books have been recommended in a wide range of publications from the CIPD professional journal to Take A Break to Cosmopolitan.

My new ebooks include:
The Good Stress Guide (completely revised new edition)
How To Cope With Stress At Work
How To Cope With Anger At Work

My backlist of titles in print include:

The Assertiveness Handbook
A Guide to Anger Management
How to Listen So That People Talk
The Busy Woman's Handbook
The Good Stress Guide
Stress at Work
Body Language at Work
Managing Anger at Work

Text Books and Study Guides
I have written and co-written numerous study guides and text books for English Literature
at A level, AS level, GCSE and Key Stage 3