In conversations, listening constitutes at least 60% of the interaction. We can hear almost twice as many words than we can speak in any given timeframe. We have two ears and one mouth. Go figure! Yet we recognize individuals for the speeches they give and for being good speakers or narrators. Where are the accolades for incredible listeners?
Most organizations will include communication as an aspect that they would like to improve on. The issues are rarely associated with what is being spoken. Instead, it is listening practices that are brought into question. ‘They did not hear what was being shared’ or ‘Why is it so difficult to understand?’ are common statements.
Maybe you could flip the script. We are trained and encouraged to participate in discussion. Instead of recognizing those individuals who talk, let’s acknowledge those who listen attentively and are thoughtful. While someone is speaking you can choose to just listen. Take in their words, not your judgements and assessments. If you had an immediate response when the person was speaking, at what point did you stop listening to craft your own response?
Listening is an art. It requires us to be present, fully immersed and engaged with the speaker. It demands that we think only about what is being said. If communication is an issue you are challenged within business or personal interactions, become a listener. At the very least, no one can accuse you of saying the wrong thing.
