Our speaker was Mike O’Krent, who has a business recording life stories of people businesses and organizations. He has recorded many stories of Holocaust survivors. His topic was “You’re not Listening?” He talked about people listening and having better conversations. When you listen, it- shows you care and it’s about them not you. Hearing does equal listening. Body language is most important for effective communication. When you truly listen, you should ask clarifying questions, avoid interjecting your views, and ask for examples or comparisons. You should be polite If someone gets emotional, but don’t interrupt, stay quiet, and don’t touch them. Never say “I understand” because you don’t. In your response, continue to make the conversation about them; make the next sentence you say include one word from the last sentence they say. This makes you listen. Mike is starting “Convomasters” to teach people to have better conversations. Email mokrent@lifestoriesalive.com for more info on this new project.