Switch Hack

Listening is the most important facet of good communication

Isn’t it odd then that most people prefer to talk rather than listen? The probable reason is that listening is a far more difficult skill than talking. But listening is such a pivotal skill in all walks of life, at work and at home. So many issues in the home between partners and within families can be put down to parties not really listening to each other.

Listening is, of course, not just about hearing, but about committing the effort to try understanding what people want.

A good listener works very hard to truly understand what is meant by the words that are spoken. Active listening can be difficult; it requires undivided attention and concentration something many people don’t think they have time for.

So much success is dependent on the ability to be a good listener and yet there is so little advice on how to do it well.

When you think how many consultants and advisors are out there promising positive transformation, it is quite disappointing that they don’t offer training on how to listen properly first as this would be a huge benefit to both individuals and organisations.