Importance of being a good listener!

“Most of the successful people I’ve known are the ones who do more listening than talking.” ~ Bernard M. Baruch

-         “Did you hear what I say?”

-         “Yeah”

-         “What did I say?”

-         “Can your say it again…I wasn’t listening..”

-         “Now, listen up and pay attention!”….

Ask any parent or school teacher, it takes lots of effort to get your point across, or get some-one’s undivided attention. The fact is; listening skill is not that simple, or natural. Our mind always tends to wander off. It takes a conscious effort to be a good listener.

Now, we all know some good talkers in our families and friends who always have something to say. However, good talkers are not always good communicators. In fact, listening is equally, if not more, important for effective communications.

The listening skills are very important for anyone who is serious about personal development and improving the communications skills. Listening is even more important if English (or the language of conversation) is not your mother tongue.

Here are some of the key benefits of being a good listener:

1.     Key to communication:

Listening is important part of any conversation. It helps to better understand the view point of the other party or the speaker. More than half of the conversation or communication is paying attention to and understanding the other side.

2.     Shows maturity and respect:

It shows maturity and respect to the speaker or the other parties involved in the conversation. Constantly interrupting without listening, never leads to a meaningful and enlightening conversation.

3.     The healing power:

Most of us generally have a friend or family member that we can call whenever we need to vent or express any frustration. It is generally someone who is willing to ‘listen’ to us and put-up with our emotional out-pour or complaining even if he or she has nothing to do with the situation. It is not that we desperately need advice; sometimes, we just need someone who can listen to us. A good listener can always provide emotional support and has a healing power; it is a god sent gift to be a good listener. The gift of listening certainly deserves more credit than it receives in our daily lives.

4.     Resolves issues:

Good listening helps with resolving issues. Many of the problems can be solved by understanding the viewpoints of everybody involved.

5.     Builds relationship:

Communication is the basis of any relationship. Active and effective listening helps with communicating and as a result, leads to better relationships and friendships.

6.     Career enhancement:

Listening always helps with career enhancement. Good listening skill at work-place is very important. It helps establish positive working relationships with bosses, clients, as well as colleagues at work.

7.     Personal development:

Better listening leads to a more complete day-to-day life. A good listener always comes across as a wise person, who can understand and empathize with others. The good listening skill leads to more meaningful relations and less frustrating situations in our daily life.

In summary, listening skills are extremely important – both in personal and professional life. For meaningful and fruitful day-to-day interactions, conversations and communications, it always pays to be a good listener.