Page 197 - Effective Communication Soft Skills Strategies For Success by Nitin Bhatnagar, Mamta Bhatnagar

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Communication: Spoken English | 185

Did you know that listening, which is so extremely critical in our daily lives, is
neither taught nor studied as much as the other three skills (speaking, reading,
and writing) of communication? The skill of effective listening can be improved
by understanding the steps involved in the process of listening.

The Four Steps of Listening

• Hearing
• Interpretation
• Evaluation
• Response

Hearing
It is the first step of listening. If you are able to repeat the speaker’s utter-
ances, then it can be said that the message has been heard.

Interpretation
It is the second step to effective listening. Interpretation of the message
depends on your knowledge, vocabulary, attitude, experience, culture, and
background. You must also be able to interpret the speaker’s body language.

Evaluation
This is the stage where you choose to believe or disbelieve the speaker. The
discernment made at this stage is crucial to the listening process.

Response

The response, whether verbal or nonverbal, is the final step in the listening
process. It is at this stage that the speaker knows if at all you have under-
stood the message right. Inefficient listening affects interpersonal relation-
ship as well as decision-making. Effective listening reduces verbal conflict
and improves discussion.

Physical Listening
Listening involves giving physical attention to the speaker. Listening with
the whole body shows your interest in what is being said. You can be a better
listener when you have face and eye contact and incline your body towards
the speaker. Position yourself appropriately. Too much distance may be

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