You have an acquaintance named Wilson. You have known him for more than ten years. He feels close to you and considers you a good friend. You, however, do not feel the same about him. One reason you do not feel close to him is because he always talks and never listens to you. Even when he lets you speak, his mind seems to wander. It's like he's always thinking about what he will say next. At times, he acts like he knows what you are going to say and does not want to hear your comments.

Wilson comments that he cannot listen to people who are dressed strangely or have annoying habits. You wonder what he says about you when talking with others. His most irritating trait is his inability to agree. If you say "yes," he says "no"; if you say "no," he says "yes."

Wilson was fired from his second job in three months. The same reason was given by his employers: "You do not listen." In a moment of humility, he approaches you as his friend and asks, "Am I really a bad listener? If I am, how can I learn to listen better?" He sincerely wants you to be honest with him.

• What would you tell Wilson about his listening behavior? Justify your answer.
• What specific suggestions would you give Wilson to help him improve his listening skills?