Communication – It Takes More Than Ginkgo or Ginseng
September 1, 2007 – 11:45 am
In the previous article in this series, we dumped a lot of the responsibility for effective communication on the sender of the message. It is very important for the sender to make sure that the message is heard and understood. However, the receiver is also an equally important factor in the communications equation.
Learning to be an good listener is tougher than you might think. Unfortunately, just dropping a few capsules of ginkgo or ginseng may increase your concentration but it won’t help you become a better listener. They say that the only reason most people are willing to listen to someone else speak is because they are waiting for their own turn to speak.
The problem is that our brain can think and process information faster than a speaker can talk. This wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing but our brain does not like to be idle so sometimes it kicks into analysis mode and starts formulating a response before the speaker finishes presenting the information. At other times, the brain simply chooses to entertain itself by taking a mental trip down some rabbit trail or just “zoning out.” Either way, the listener risks missing key components of the message.
In order to stay “dialed in” to a conversation, you have to practice concentrating and adjust your attitude about your role in communication. Start by telling yourself that you will not judge the message until the speaker finishes speaking. In fact, you should concentrate all of your energy toward understanding the message. Ask questions to clarification the sender’s message. Use common active listening skills like repeating the key elements of the message back to the sender in your words. Remember, repeating the message does not necessary mean that your agree with the message. However, it does help insure that you understood the message that the sender was trying to convey.
Remember, as the receiver, you are at least equally responsible for insuring that effective communication takes place.
Other articles in this series: