Experimenting with how we listen solidifies our active partnership in conversations… Through intentionally applying new ways to listen, we build relationships, understand others, and collaborate and problem-solve more effectively.
Takeaways of Note:
4 Distinct Listening Styles:
Analytical listener …analyzes from a neutral starting point
Relational listener …builds connection & understands the emotions underlying a message
Critical listener …judges both content of the conversation & reliability of the speakerTask-focused listener …shapes a conversation towards efficient transfer of important information
5 Ways to Improve Your Listening:
1. Establish why you are listening – to be efficient, to avoid conflict, to gain attention, to support, to entertain, etc.
2. Recognize how you usually listen – our default style may preclude applying other styles to achieve other goals
3. Be aware of who is the focus of attention – be aware of the impact of interjecting and maintain curiosity about the speaker’s message
4. Adapt the listening style to achieve conversational goals – stay focused on the speaker and the goals to help adapt to the needs of the situation
5. Ask: Am I missing something? – consider whether the conversation seems productive and what may be missing