Be More Duck And Listen Better

Here's a really simple formula to help you be the best type of listener and ensure that you ask lots of questions.

Just QAC like a duck when you're in a conversation.

QAC is a three step model that goes like this:

Q - Ask a Question. Open questions are the best sort.

A - Answer. Let the other person answer in full and pay attention to what they say. No, I mean really pay attention. To be a better listener you can't just sit there thinking about what you're going to say in reply.

C - Comment. Say something in response to what the other person has said that really shows you've been listening. Returning with a story of your own doesn't count.

You: The Listener

So far so good right? You've proved you can listen to a whole paragraph or so of someone else's life. And that will help them feel that you care. Which is great.

But what happens next?

You keep QACing, that's what.

After you've made a comment you then ask another question. And listen carefully to the answer. And then you comment to show you've been listening.

And then you ask another question. And listen.

And then . . . well, you get it. You keep QACing.

Be more duck.

Where To Use This?

With work colleagues. Being a supportive colleague is important for positive team dynamics and QACing helps with this.

Leadership. Using QAC allows leaders the opportunity to listen more, hear more, respond more effectively, and demonstrate that they are people who care and take the time to understand.

Sales. QAC is a great model to follow when you're qualifying prospects. Just make sure that your comment is an agreement that validates what your future customer has just said.  Keep QACing to move further toward the close.

Everyday life. People want to feel good, and you can help them by using QAC. Listening more carefully to your spouse, children, family and friends makes them feel valued.

Enjoy helping the people you care about to feel valued and good about themselves.