1. Listen for ideas, not facts – ask yourself what they mean

The Tao of Effective Listening

1. Judge content, not delivery, i.e. what they say, not how they say it

2. Listen optimistically – don't lose interest straight away

3. Do not jump to conclusions

4. Be flexible, adjust your note-taking to the speaker

5. Concentrate – don't start dreaming – and keep eye contact

6. Do not think ahead of the speaker – you will lose track

8. Work at listening – be alert and alive

9. Keep emotions under control when listening

10. Open your mind – practice accepting new information

11. Breathe slowly and deeply

12. Relax physically, get comfortable