To "hear" and "listen" are two different things
Posted by: Prof. Lauren Vargas in SpeakingTo dovetail Geoff’s latest post and to prevent anyone from making themselves appear like the animal represented in the post’s picture, it is essential to define listening. As a university professor, I incorporate the basic skill of active listening into all of my class curriculum. Most students new to my class do not know how to actively listen.
To apply the mind, or pay attention, with a view to perceive, understand, or comply; to pay regard; to heed.
versus to hear…
To perceive (sound) by the ear.
Too often we choose to selectively listen. To succeed in a social media environment, such half measures will doom any presence. Relationships require devoted attention. Rather than focusing on our own messages, we must relearn how to listen to others.
- Prove your understanding by asking for clarification.
- Focus on the speaker; take notes.
- Resist distractions.
- Be respectful.
- Acknowledge speaker.
- Paraphrase.
- Ask open-ended questions.
Golden Rule: "Listen unto others as you would have others listen to you."
May 3rd, 2008 at 3:31 pm
I don’t get the chance to quote “White Men Can’t Jump” too often, but this post reminded me of the quote by Sidney Deane (Wesley Snipes). And I just had to share:
“Look man, you can listen to Jimi [Hendrix] but you can’t hear him. There’s a difference man. Just because you’re listening to him doesn’t mean you’re hearing him.”