The potential barriers to listening are the acoustics and the physical environment conditions. If there is background noise, poor amplification, inadequate seating, or poor ventilation, for example, the listener will not be able to effectively concentrate on the speaker. The speaker can contribute to the problem of effective listening. If the speaker is disorganized, uses strange language, has strange accents or tone, or appears sloppy or unusual, this will distract the listener. Clear projection, familiar wording, concise information and a neat appearance will provide aids to the listener.
Subject matter is the third factor that influences effective listening.
If the concepts are strange, unfamiliar, complex or new, the listener can become confused and thus, not listen effectively. The speaker should try and keep the subject material simple and familiar, using analogies to help explain unique or complex concepts. The final factor that influences listening is the listener himself. Two areas come into effect here. The listener must be ready to listen and have a willingness to listen.