This classic technique is used in situations where you are trying to capture objective information, such as in classes, staff meetings, etc. By taking this approach, we have the mental fortitude to focus longer, ask questions when we don’t understand and think more deeply on a topic.įocus on main points and don’t attempt to capture everything. Typically we expend more effort to understand a subject when we know that we have to teach it to someone else. Many education and training specialists suggest this technique. If your primary goal is to understand the message, set aside your preconceptions about the topic and just listen. Improving informative listening: There are several steps you can take to improve your informative listening skills. If you’re receiving formal training that will be followed by a test, your primary goal should be to understand the material, not to evaluate whether the material should be taught at this level. Informative listening is important when receiving information from an established authority or receiving information that is not open for debate.įor example, if you’re receiving a briefing on changes to the assignment system, your goal should be to understand exactly what the rules are, not to sort out the reasons why you think the rules are off track. A successful listening outcome occurs when the listener understands the message exactly as the sender intended. In informative listening, the listener’s primary concern is to understand information exactly as transmitted. Keep reading to uncover how to match listening categories to particular acts of communication. For example, using an informative listening approach (taking notes, asking focused questions) in an empathic listening situation (an angry spouse who feels you’re neglecting the family) could cause the communicative act to fail. Using an incorrect listening category for a certain listening situation may be problematic. Second, they can be used to describe listening approaches-the behaviors we use in a given situation and how we are listening. First, they can be used to characterize listening situations-that is, why we should be listening in this situation. ![]() Informative, Critical and Empathic listening categories can be used in two different ways. You’re trying to mend fences with a coworker after a major conflict.Your teenager doesn’t want to move during senior year you’ve got orders.A coworker is unsure how to deal with subtle discrimination.Your spouse is worried about your next deployment.A subordinate is seeking advice on whether to reenlist.Part of critical listening, is being open to ideas that we don't agree with and evaluate it to our fullest extent.\)Įmpathic Listening: We listen to understand and help others in situations where emotions are involved and the speaker, not just the message, is important. The truth is, many of us have a tendency to listen to information aligns with our beliefs and then zone out the stuff that doesn't. Instead, focus on the facts and questions that can help the speaker clarify their message. It's important when you listen, to stop making assumptions and place your biases in the back burner. If you run into illogical points or exaggerated language, take the opportunity to dive deeper before accepting or rejecting the message. If what the speaker is saying seems off or inconsistent, listen to your intuition. Relying on your common sense can act as a warning system for you. ![]() Remember, only rigorous practice will help you become an effective critical listener and build your team management skills. Now, that you've got a fair idea about critical listening, it's time to start building up your critical listening skills with your team.
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