5 common factors that affect the ability to listen effectively
By: Fadojutimi Temitayo
Tags: Public Speaking, Active Listening, English, Self Improvement, Speaking

Listening is a procedure that includes currently hearing what the other individual is saying and taking care of that correspondence. Listening is the means by which we get the verbal part of a person’s message.

Listening is very not quite the same as hearing since hearing is just the demonstration of perceiving sound by the ear. On the off chance that you are not hearing-disabled, hearing essentially happens. Listening, be that as it may, is something you deliberately do. Listening requires focus with the goal that your mind forms significance from words and sentences. Listening prompts learning.

I have highlighted 5 common factors that affect people’s ability to listen effectively below. This list is by no means exhaustive. I’d love to hear other factors that affect your ability to listen effectively also in the comment box below.

1. Lack of interest

Often times, we get ourselves caught in a conversation that essentially does not hold our interest. In such cases, we’ll be tempted to float off in our own contemplations or concentrate on something unique — which, shockingly, can be an obstruction to listening.

As an example, I usually lost interest when someone discuss football with me because I don’t have interest in it. I tend to inform the speaker about my lack of interest in the topic before he goes too far.

Of course, it’s not by any means a good idea to drive your consideration on a topic you find horribly boring. In the event that the discourse isn’t vital, steer the discussion to an alternate heading. In the event that it is essential, in any case, attempt to concentrate on the important focuses and note them down.

2. Noise, Awkward seating positions and temperature

Ecological factors, for example, noise, temperature and awkward seating positions can make us concentrate our attention on other factors alongside what the speaker is saying.

Attempt to control environmental factors at whatever points conceivable. Take a stab at finding a calm at another seat or move to a quiet place to proceed with the discussion. It is really hard to center concentration when we are always occupied by outside powers.

3. Distractions

The most evident and presumably the most significant barriers to listening this day and age are different distractions. Tragically, a large number of us can’t be part of a discussion without continually looking at our phone or PC. In addition to the fact that it is viewed as discourteous, yet it additionally tells the other individual that you’re exhausted and whatever is on your telephone is more critical to you than this discussion.

As you’re distracted, you’re additionally liable to miss critical points or information that you may require later on. When you’re having a discussion with somebody, it’s best to keep these distractions away and concentrate on the individual before you.

4. Personal bias

Personal bias can cloud your judgment and influence you to deliberately ignore towards significant information or great individuals. When you live and work in a multicultural domain, it’s essential to abandon every one of your biases when you’re speaking with others.

For instance, on the off chance that you accept a person as unintelligent (or even less astute than you) as a result of his educational background, you’re blinding yourself. You have to give everybody the advantage of uncertainty and listen to what they have to say.

5. Intrusion

The fact that no good thing originates from interfering with somebody while they’re talking is one of those cardinal tenets of communication we’re all taught as kids. Sadly, that lesson doesn’t tend to stick. Individuals are so anxious to be heard that occasionally they intrude on discussions to express their own supposition.

Be that as it may, in addition to the fact that it is viewed as inconsiderate, but on the other hand, it’s one of the greatest barriers to effective listening. To refrain from committing this mistake, attempt to hold up until the point when the other individual has completed the process of talking before saying your own thoughts so anyone can hear.

What other factors can affect one’s ability to listen effectively? Make sure to leave a comment underneath with your thoughts.