Now Hear This

Ask questions, says Scott. “Get more details, make them go deeper into the story. If you’re in a meeting with your boss, for example, figure out what role you play in the story and ask how you can help.”

Postpone, whenever possible, discussing your own point of view, particularly in contentious situations. By refraining, you enable the speaker to feel that he or she is being heard and acknowledged. And this may make him or her more open to listening to your point of view.