In my own family, no one has completed a sentence before someone else started one in years. We are used to interrupting each other in informal settings. And usually no one thinks much of it. If you are in doubt of the importance of listening, look at any study of clients or patients who decided to sue their healthcare practitioner for malpractice. Most say that in addition to poor or inappropriate care, what pushed them over the edge and made them decide to sue was their feeling that their complaint or problem was not listened to.
Effective communication depends on active listening.
Active listening is staying mentally alert and focused on what the customer is trying to communicate. It requires listeners to set aside their own thoughts and put themselves in the position of the customer. When you are next at work and are dealing with a customer or client, be conscious of your listening skills. If so, don't fret. There are many things you can do to improve your listening skills.