Nodding in Agreement?
Maybe—but more likely it's a nod of "absence" . . . . of attention, that is!

The time to stop talking is when the other person nods his head affirmatively but says nothing. ~ Unknown

Have you ever had a "conversation" with someone who just would not shut up? Of course, you have. And while they moved their lips unmercifully, were you amazed at your ability to just float off into your happy place while totally ignoring every word they said? What was even more amazing was your ability to still nod your head despite having absolutely no clue what that person just said. Nice fake!

Now hear is some more truth. There have been times in the past 30 days when you subjected somebody to the same verbal torture. Think back right now to a recent conversation when somebody just nodded but said nothing. Did you keep talking? If so, you may have lost them three sentences ago. So how do we know if people are listening while they are nodding?

Ask! People usually nod WHILE you are talking to let you know they are listening (even if they are not). But if you REALLY want to know if they are dialed in, get confirmation AFTER you make your PRECISE point. If they respond with more than a nod, then they are engaged in the conversation. It has now become a dialogue and not a monologue.

Today, throughout every conversation, pay close attention to the nodding others are doing while you are talking. When you see it, stop, and get verbal confirmation to see if they are with you.  If they change the subject, you have just received your answer. (And by the way...if you really want people to listen, say something worth hearing — I will save that one for next week.

Brian Sullivan can be reached at www.preciseselling.com.