Member of the Executive Board - International Business and Online
There are people who listen to understand, striving to truly grasp the speaker's perspective and emotions. On the other side, many (more) people only listen to respond, focused solely on crafting their reply. Listening to understand builds genuine connections and fosters empathy, essential for effective communication and meaningful relationships. This approach not only deepens mutual respect but also enhances problem-solving and collaboration. To truly listen to understand, consider these techniques: ✔ Prioritize the speaker by eliminating internal and external distractions, ensuring your full presence. ✔Paraphrase the speaker's message to confirm your comprehension and show that you value their perspective. ✔Ask insightful, open-ended questions that invite the speaker to explore and elaborate on their thoughts. ✔Pay attention to non-verbal signals, such as body language and tone, to understand the emotions behind the words. ✔Embrace pauses and silence, giving the speaker time to articulate their thoughts without feeling rushed. What do you think? #listening #questions #answers #leader #leadership #collaboration
We tend to listen to respond because we often want to sound smart. Listening to understand naturally makes you sound smart because you understand both the person and his message better.
Communication is like a dance. You can feel it when the other party wants and enjoys the dance. The rhythm and flow make you want to dance all night. Such conversations are like treasures. A wise man I met a long time ago said that silence is the voice of God. The sound of silence in a conversation is souls communicating.
Andreas von der Heydt While listening to understand is generally more beneficial for meaningful communication, there are situations where listening to respond can be appropriate, such as in fast-paced environments where quick decision-making is essential. However, even in such contexts, ensuring that the response is informed by a genuine understanding of the speaker's message can greatly enhance communication effectiveness. Developing the skill to listen to understand can transform personal and professional relationships, leading to more meaningful interactions, better problem-solving, and stronger connections. Cultivating empathy, patience, and active listening skills are key to achieving this deeper level of communication.
Andreas von der Heydt agree and most of all it is not just a technique but the willigness to understand and not to strive against. I have seen many discussion led by your mentioned techniques but nevertheless there was a lack of willingness to understand. The problem sayed „in the Room“ and the solution was far away. Without meaning techniques are not worthy but with they can make the difference.
Listening carefully, concentrating on what an other person says and trying to understand it full is not easy. Especially when your own mind is fast and furious, and immediately your own ideas start to horde inside your head and you wait a moment you can finally shine out.
I’ve always said there are two types of people. People who listen and people who wait to talk. Be the former, not the latter.
This is something I still have to practice. It is easy to let your 'inner expert' give advice and impose your ideas to any situation a friend or a colleague might be facing. To truly listen and help somebody we need to follow the techniques you listed. I find it really insightful! Thanks for sharing, be sure I will try to apply them the next time somebody needs to be listened! 😊
Andreas von der Heydt you are 100% spot on and this should be shared far beyond this platform. Increasingly more individuals are self centred, focused on either absorbing numb information from social media without reflection, and if prepared to engage, to counter argue be defensive or even attack their opponent verbally. Yet skillful listening is an inclusive art for good leadership, but also for good human #respect and interaction
Fully agree, understanding is key for any relationship, business or private. Listening to respond tends to be often "defensive" only looking for flaws in a question to exploit
Helping women recognize the incredible power they have to overcome obstacles and to reignite their passion and joy in life | Holistic leadership coach | Named one of the top 15 coaches in Amsterdam 2024
1moFully agree and love the 5 techniques. I would add one more: Reflect back on past conversations to show continuity and build trust, demonstrating that you remember and care about what was previously discussed... Super powerful to build trust and build genuine connections!