Mastering the Art of Listening

Mastering the art of listening

Jacqueline Washington

Axia College University of Phoenix

IT 105 Skills for Learning in an Information Age

Heidi Koppenhofer

January 14, 2006

Learning how to listen is needed in everyday life but, it is essential in order to have a successful relationship. That relationship may be comprised of a mother and child a husband, and his wife, or a boss, and an employee. No matter who the relationship involves it is important to be proficient in the skill of listening.

Most people are so focused on getting their point across they do not hear what the other person is saying. Furthermore, the hardest task for one to do is sit and be quiet while another person is ranting and raving about something that may be upsetting to them especially if it is a loved one. The need to fix or give advice is always the first idea that comes to mind. The mere fact that in a debate, one does not always have to be in agreement with the other person's view seems to never be an option. Agreeing to disagree is always an option. If a friend or loved one is experiencing troubled times, sharing an opinion may not always be the best way to handle the situation. The situation may warrant a need for someone to listen who will allow him to vent his frustrations and not say a word. Listening can be just as, if not more, effective as solving the problem. Being supportive is not always equated with talking one should be content with silence (Savage, 2006). Support may be in the form of reducing other indirect pressures. If a spouse is coming home from a rough day at work, hearing that Bobby acted out in school today may not be the first thing he, or she needs to hear coming through the door. "At times, deliberately choose not to unload every issue and problem of the day during first few minutes he or she enters the door." (Savage, 2006, p.1, Sec 5).

Many companies have seminars on leadership to improve the relationship between the management team and their subordinates in order to enhance the work environment. One of the key elements of the class is learning how to improve their listening skills. Everyone needs to get along with everyone for the success of the company. Being able to talk with a supervisor and share concerns without being afraid of repercussions may be instrumental in increasing morale in the workplace. "Good leaders build teams by being willing to hire people better than themselves, staying secure in their own roles and by listening" (Maxell, 2006, p.9, Sec. 6)

A women had to stay overnight in the hospital to have dental surgery, and did not like the experience of being separated from her son. She shared her concerns with the nurse but the nurse, so engrossed in her duties, was not truly listening. The nurse proceeded to give her instructions for the night and went on about her duties. As she was completing her paperwork she realized what the woman had said, and made it back into her room to check on her. There was another woman in the bed next to her and she managed to get these two women to talking which seemed to ease both of their anxieties regarding the hospital stay. This nurse stated, "I wanted to finish the admission formalities before the end of my late shift, so I forgot