Get All Access for $5/mo

Hey, You! Here's How You Can Be a Better Listener. (Infographic) Whether you have to bite your tongue or put your phone on 'sleep mode,' don't just hear the words -- pay attention and process them.

By Rose Leadem

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Caiaimage/Paul Bradbury | Getty Images

There's a difference between listening and hearing. Many of us think we're good listeners, when in fact we're probably just hearing the person next to us. Actively paying attention and processing the words spoken constitutes good listening.

If you find yourself constantly interrupting others, allowing your mind to wander or darting your attention to your phone or computer -- it's likely you're a bad listener.

But don't worry -- you can change that. Having great listening skills will help you engage with peers and build stronger relationships.

Check out CT Business Travel's infographic to find out if you're a good listener and learn some tips to improve.

Rose Leadem is a freelance writer for Entrepreneur.com. 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Starting a Business

He Started a Business That Surpassed $100 Million in Under 3 Years: 'Consistent Revenue Right Out of the Gate'

Ryan Close, founder and CEO of Bartesian, had run a few small businesses on the side — but none of them excited him as much as the idea for a home cocktail machine.

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Franchise

The Top 10 Coffee Franchises in 2024

From a classic cup of joe to a creamy latte, grab your favorite mug and get ready to brew up success with the best coffee franchises.

Marketing

How Small Businesses Can Leverage Dark Social to Drive Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Dark social accounts for 70% of social media shares and is crucial for small businesses. Here's how you can tap into this hidden marketing opportunity.

Business News

'Do You Sell Cars?': Tesla CEO Elon Musk Trolls Jaguar Rebrand on X

The team running Jaguar's X account was working hard on social media this week.

Business News

'Jaw-Dropping Performance in 2024,' Says a Senior Analyst as Nvidia Reports Earnings

Nvidia reported its highly-anticipated third-quarter earnings on Wednesday.