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understand until there's a mistake. (2) People don't want to look stupid by admitting they don't understand. (3) People don't want to waste other people's time by having them repeat themselves. (4) People don't want to appear to be criticizing the way the other person gave them the instructions by admitting the instructions were unclear. |
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For whatever reason the hesitancy, forget it. Ask. You're doing the instruction-giver a favor by verifying that you understand and by asking clarifying questions if you do not. People will find it much easier to repeat themselves up front, if necessary, than to repeat themselves later while trying to undo, redo, or make do. |
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Tip 461: Listen to difficult, complex information as it relates to you. |
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Seminars, symposiums, and staff meetings may all include information that you consider dull or even complex. During these times, you may give your mind permission to go on recess. But is that in your best interest? If so, be my guest. If notif you really need to know the information, but you find listening a chorepractice discipline. We're used to "absorbing" information through entertainment on TV, radio, or CD without having to work for it. Listening to things that require concentration takes effort. |
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Try jotting down key points. Not comprehensive note-taking, but keyword or key-point note-taking. It forces you to pay attention and look for the structure in the information you're receiving. |
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Also, look for personal application in what you're hearing. If you were about to be sent up in a space rocket, you'd probably find it easier to listen to instructions on using the oxygen mask than if you intended to spend the weekend lounging in front of the TV. Always dig for the WIIFM (what's in it for me?). Why do I need to know this? How can I use this information? If you're a salesperson trying to learn new product specifications, visualize the paycheck because of your knowledgeable response to a customer's technical question. If you're hearing why management decided to set up a certain retirement plan, visualize yourself having to explain it to your spouse. Look for purpose. Whet your appetite. |
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Tip 462: Know when to listen analytically. |
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When someone dumps his or her feelings about a broken love affair, you need to listen reflectivelyto hear the feelings along with the facts. On the other hand, as a manager you have to learn to listen analytically. You may have to take the lead in helping the other person sort fact from fiction, to discern hidden agendas, to develop creative alternatives to problems, and to evaluate those alternatives. |
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