What kind of listener are you?

In theory, everyone wants to be an open communicator, engaging with another person rather than just waiting to talk.

And with that headline above, you’re likely thinking about the way you interact with others — do you really listen, or just anticipate when it’s your turn? Do you focus in the moment or think about what you have to do later in the day?

Business expert Ascanio Pignatelli acknowledges the important distinction between disengaged listening, engaged listening and empathetic listening, with the latter going the furthest to establish trust and rapport with colleagues and clients.

Think about the last conversation you had:

• Did you ask questions or just talk at someone?
• Did you listen to what the person had to say and acknowledge their comments or just offer your own input?
• Did you feel connected to the other person or stuck in your own head?

It’s a simple message, but with lots to do and not enough time to do it, one that’s very easy to forget.

Read more in the Round the Table article “Be a better listener.”

Written by Matt Pais, MDRT Content Specialist