Listen. • Don’t interrupt. • Don’t finish the other person’s sentences. • Don’t say “I knew that.” • Don’t even agree with the other person (even if he praises you, just say, “Thank you”). • Don’t use the words “no,” “but,” and “however.” • Don’t be distracted. Don’t let your eyes or attention wander elsewhere while the other person is talking. • Maintain your end of the dialogue by asking intelligent questions that (a) show you’re paying attention, (b) move the conversation forward, and (c) require the other person to talk (while you listen). • Eliminate any striving to impress
