Listening builds relationships, relationships achieve results.

When others are speaking, are you hearing, or do you take it to a deeper level and actually listen? There is a difference!

Hearing is being aware that there is sound or noise within earshot, and listening is when you’re actually engaged in processing the message of the sounds or the words. When listening to others, you fully focus your attention on that person, dedicated to comprehending what they’re saying. This takes effort and enhances the ability to build strong relationships.

A few key differentiators are:

Hearing:

• Is involuntary
• Is passive / requires no effort
• Is an awareness that there is “noise”

Listening:

• Is voluntary
• Is active / requires attention and effort
• Is a desire to interpret what’s being said (or to understand the “noise”)

Listening is a skill and can be challenging due to distractions, not enjoying the subject matter, or perhaps even the person speaking.

We all want to be listened to, being heard isn’t enough! Let the speaker know they have your undivided attention and that you are receptive to their message. (This does not necessarily mean that you agree). It’s helpful to share back what you’ve heard as it will validate your interpretation and help prevent misunderstandings.

Also, consider what’s being said as well as non-verbal cues such as tone, position, making eye contact, and gestures. Are they positive and receptive to more dialog or do they appear to be shutting down?

Listening requires an effort to be present and pay attention; would you consider yourself an effective listener?