When you’re with someone, are you genuinely interested in what they have to say?  When someone is speaking, are you really hearing what they are conveying, or are you thinking about what YOU are going to say next?  And, perhaps more importantly, if you are not carefully listening to someone, how can you truly help them or satisfy their needs?

The art of listening – and of truly being present in the moment – is a major theme in my recent book, Beyond Common: 12 Essentials for Success in Life and in the Workplace.  I felt that so many people didn’t understand that it’s a lifelong journey to listen, to be present, and to be a part of the conversation in a way that helps as many people as possible. 

How successful has your communication been with a mask on ? Well I have had some epic failures a...