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Effective listening is a crucial skill that goes beyond simply hearing words;

Writer's picture: Surviving Breast CancerSurviving Breast Cancer


At SBC we received a heartfelt, brilliant note from community member and MBC Leadership team participant Kathleen Friel, regarding how to properly listen to and respond when speaking with someone with a speech impairment. (See her email below).

 

Kathleen’s memo got me to thinking about how I can personally improve and develop effective listening habits, and after some quick research I came up with the following:

 

Effective listening is a crucial skill that goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves fully comprehending and interpreting the message being conveyed. One key aspect of effective listening is providing the speaker with your undivided attention. This means putting aside distractions, such as phones or other electronic devices, and maintaining eye contact to signal that you are fully engaged. Furthermore, active listening involves non-verbal cues, like nodding or mirroring the speaker's body language, to convey understanding and encouragement.


In addition to non-verbal cues, paraphrasing and summarizing the speaker's message demonstrates that you are not only hearing but also processing the information.

 

This reflective aspect of listening ensures that both parties are on the same page, fostering clarity and preventing misunderstandings. It's essential to refrain from interrupting and allow the speaker to express themselves fully before responding. This patience and respect contribute to a more open and communicative environment, where individuals feel heard and valued.

 

Ultimately, effective listening is a skill that strengthens relationships, promotes understanding, and facilitates successful communication.

 

…the message from Kathleen


 

Hi Friends,


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