In fact, my result is 13 ‘correct answers out of 20. Undoubtedly, any test is a set of subjective assessments, methods, and rules, and only a highly qualified specialist can give an accurate and reliable description of a person’s competencies. Anyway, ‘How Good Are Your Listening Skills?’ is a clear, relevant, and fair test. Comments on my result are given in a detailed form, which demonstrates my knowledge and skills regarding ‘listening to interlocutors.’
In addition, they also provide valuable tips and solutions on how to communicate productively, and how to avoid embarrassments and misunderstandings in interacting with people. Despite the inaccuracy and subjectivity of the ‘tool’, I agree with the test results. Each piece of information is deeply disclosed and has its meaning, and every detail is carefully thought out and marked.
Consequently, I will agree that communicating with people is the key to success in all areas of life. This is not only an essential component of a successful career but also of a happy personal life. So, listening is the way to effective communication, the competent transmission of information, and the interpretation of received messages. Many successful leaders and entrepreneurs attribute their success to the ability to listen. Moreover, good listening skills increase the number of friends, self-esteem, and confidence, improving health and overall well-being. Good listeners think more broadly because they hear and understand more facts and points of view.
Such people can look at the problem fresh and combine what they have learned in the most unusual ways. Therefore, the test helped me realize my further path to excellence in communication, personal growth, and new ideas and opportunities.
In this situation, to develop my ability to listen to people more effectively and respectfully, I should observe the following ways. Firstly, it is crucial to learn to ‘listen’ to the interlocutor, not just to ‘hear.’ Listening is an understanding of another person, and then how I am understood as a listener (Leading Effectively Staff, 2020). This is one of the most critical indicators of a person’s culture and the manifestation of his tolerance, respect, and condescension in conversation.
It is much more pleasant to communicate with someone who knows how to listen and not just talk. Everyone wants to see a friendly and attentive listener in their interlocutor who will be happy to support the conversation. In addition, ‘listening’ depends on how much a person wants to understand his partner and imbue him with feelings, emotions, and thoughts. When the partner has the opportunity to clearly express his thoughts, there is a chance to get important and helpful information about this interlocutor. Besides, one can see what mistakes he or she makes in communication not repeat them. Also, in listening, one can track the reactions to human behavior and see oneself from the outside.
Secondly, no one likes those who focus only on their interests and do not notice what is happening around them, forgetting about everything and everyone. I should be an active listener and not just perceive information but also show comprehension. At first glance, this is not an easy task since it requires a person to analyze and interpret the words spoken. An effective listener shows more effort, attention, and empathy, and uses unique techniques. For example, he or she looks into the eyes, asks relevant questions, and uses verbal and non-verbal gestures (Navigus, 2019). Indeed, preoccupation with oneself prevents hearing and a better understanding of the interlocutor.
Sometimes people look at the same facts, interpreting their meaning through the prism of personal experience, and usually start advising without fulfilling the simple request to listen to ‘fellow.’ A good interlocutor will refrain from harsh judgments about his ‘friend’ and never interrupt, thereby allowing the speaker to complete the thought and not lose the thread of the narrative. Active listening helps to achieve specific successful results in communication and to establish mutual understanding with the speaker. Moreover, it is assumed that two parties are involved in the conversation, and therefore it is essential to be able to smoothly move from listening to the conversation and apply feedback.
Therefore, one should periodically not only sit and be silent but also ask counter questions, share opinions and advice, and maintain the topic of conversation. An interlocutor can tell about the experience and share an idea caused by a comment made earlier. A ‘companion’ should never be shy to ask about anything on any ambiguous and unclear problem. This is how to get an idea of the extent to which a friendly relationship has arisen. (Leading Effectively Staff, 2020).
Good listeners are not like ‘sponges’ that ‘absorb’ energy and ideas, but rather ‘trampolines’ that repel and reflect thoughts (Zenger, J. & Folkman, 2016). They make the interlocutors feel mutual understanding, confidence, and support. In addition, openness and sincerity help to increase self-esteem and form a positive outlook on the world. No one forbids laughing and being sad, crying and angry. Indeed, people are not always ready to understand someone and accept certain ‘shortcomings.’ However, it is more likely that one can find like-minded people in this way. The fear of speaking out and appearing ridiculous always repels others. On the contrary, people with adequate self-esteem who know their strengths and values attract others to themselves.
To sum up, the test results opened my eyes to something I had not noticed before. It will be a long and thorough way of working on myself and my mistakes. Of course, perfection is an ideal concept, and there is nothing ideal in the world, but it is definitely worth striving for it. Therefore, I should learn to listen to people and support the conversation with leading questions, and share my opinions about a particular issue.
References
Leading Effectively Staff. (2020). Use active listening skills to coach others. Center for Creative Leadership. Web.
Navigus. (2019). Active listening skills: Become a better listener. Navigon. Web.
Zenger, J. & Folkman, J. (2016). What great listeners actually do. Harvard Business Review. Web.