{adapted on a post on Linkedin by Bruce Kasanoff offering advice to entrepreneurs}
Do not formulate your answer while the other person is talking.
People who don't listen decide how they are going to respond before you even stop talking. ........
Don't be afraid to pause for five or ten seconds to consider the question. Doing so demonstrates that you listened carefully and that you are giving them the courtesy of a thoughtful reply.
If you actually give a thoughtful reply, no one will remember that it took you nine seconds to start talking.
Repeat each question before you answer it.
Never make the mistake of taking five minutes of time answering a question s/he did not ask. First, paraphrase the question by saying,
"If I understand you correctly, you want to know (how we are going to ...........) Is that right?"
If necessary,
allow the other person to clarify their question. Only start your answer
when you are 100% certain you understand the question.
It may seem like a waste of time to do this, but you will be demonstrating your ability to obtain and understand feedback.
