be a better listener

I am currently taking an Interpersonal Communication class with the hopes of being a better speaker and listener…although speaking doesn’t seem to be a problem. It’s the listening I have to work harder at, especially when I am dealing with business contacts in other countries. Their language and culture is different and I am always afraid I am going to offend by talking too much. So I need to be more attentive.
Oh. Sorry. Did you say something? I wasn’t listening.