Listening Skills and The Better Lawyer

A lawyers’ task is to take in information, process it and transform it into advice and into action. Whether lawyers are listening to witnesses, clients, colleagues, or courts, lawyers gain much, if not most, of that information through hearing. Yet listening–a core, fundamental skill–is rarely taught. Every lawyer receives extensive training in reading, writing, and speaking, but typically none in listening. Less than 10% of communication is contained in the words themselves, rendering most communication lost unless the hearer is trained in listening and interpreting the speaker’s message. The result too often is communication failure, an entirely avoidable result.

In this fast-paced, interactive class you will learn:

• The six-step method to improving your listening skills;
• Five listening styles and their effect on communication;
• Overcoming ten common barriers to communication;
• Identifying and interpreting body language and metalanguage;
• Enhanced recognition of deception and other hidden messages;
• Eight powerful questions that ensure accurate communication;
• Improving your own communications to enhance rapport and understanding.

The workshop consists of several modules, including:

• Assessment of your current listening style and skill level;
• Identifying and understanding body language;
• Assessing metalanguage (including pitch, rate, inflection, emphasis) and interpreting its meaning;
• The six-step method for improving your listening;
• Learning and using powerful probe questions, the key to accurate communication.