???? There are 7 different listening styles – here’s what they are and when they’re useful ?????

Hey LinkedIn fam! ?? Let's talk about something that we often take for granted but plays a huge role in our everyday lives – listening! ?? Sound is not just a means to hear the world around us; it's a powerful tool that shapes the way we connect and communicate with others. So, let's dive into the fascinating world of listening and explore its various styles!

Now, we all know that hearing and listening are two different things. While hearing is innate and developed before we're even born, true listening is an art that can transform our relationships and interactions. If someone has ever made you feel ignored, you know what I mean! ??

According to the amazing coach Marilyn Devonish, listening is an invaluable human skill and a beautiful gift we can give to others. ?? So, let's master the art of listening and discover the seven different listening styles that can make a real difference in our lives!

The Power of Listening

While sight is often considered the primary sense, hearing plays an equally crucial role in our lives. From our early days in the womb, our auditory sense is fully developed, shaping our connection with the world. Although hearing and active listening may seem synonymous, they are distinctly different. Hearing is a physiological process, while listening is an interactive activity that involves receiving, understanding, and responding to messages.

What Are the Different Listening Styles?

There are seven different listening styles, each applicable in varying scenarios. Understanding these styles can help us listen more effectively, whether it's to a boss, a friend, or a loved one.

1. Active Listening

Active listening is a fully engaged style of listening, involving both verbal and non-verbal cues. It's about immersing oneself in the conversation and observing the speaker's body language and facial expressions. This style of listening goes beyond the words being spoken, painting a complete picture of the message.

2. Reflective Listening

Reflective listening is a form of active listening. Here, the listener mirrors the speaker's feelings and thoughts, enhancing understanding and communication. It's particularly useful when someone seeks advice or reassurance.

3. Informational or Critical Listening

This style of listening is often employed in work environments. It's about evaluating, analyzing, and questioning the information being presented. It's a problem-solving approach that can help elicit more information and assess situations effectively.

4. Biased or Distorted Listening

We all have a tendency to hear what we want to hear, based on our biases, judgments, and values. Biased or distorted listening is when we filter out information that contradicts our beliefs or perspectives.

5. Closed Listening

Closed or defensive listening is when the listener isn't really listening but waiting for a chance to present their point of view. It often leads to conflicts or misunderstandings in the conversation.

6. Distracted Listening

We've all been guilty of distracted listening at some point. It's when we're not fully engaged in the conversation, either because we're preoccupied with something else or simply uninterested in the topic. This style of listening can make the speaker feel ignored or undervalued.

7. Empathetic Listening

Empathetic listening is about understanding and sharing the feelings of the speaker. It's often used in personal conversations and therapeutic settings, creating a sense of security and understanding.

Understanding these listening styles can help us become better communicators and listeners, enhancing our personal and professional relationships.

The Impact on Communication

Our listening style can significantly impact our communication effectiveness. It influences how we understand, respond to, and interact with others. By being aware of our listening styles, we can better navigate various communication scenarios, whether it's in a professional setting or personal interaction.

Conclusion

Listening is a powerful skill that goes beyond just hearing. It involves understanding and responding to messages effectively. By understanding the seven different listening styles, we can improve our communication skills and cultivate stronger relationships in various life contexts. Remember, the way we listen can change depending on the situation and the person we're listening to. So, let's strive to be better listeners and foster more meaningful connections.