Styles of Listening

I think I would describe my listening style as “people centered.” I am usually focused on what others think and feel in relation to the conversation. When working with others, I try to compromise and hear them out. In addition, I feel that is it hard to have a positive conversation if you are not understanding of the other person’s feelings.

I learned this listening style from my grandmother because in my family she is the person who listens to everyone’s problems. This may seem like a burden to some but she really enjoys listening and helping them. Throughout the years, she has helped me with many problems and I have sensed a feeling of compassion and understanding while speaking to her. It might be a “grandmother” thing to take on this role, however, I feel she really has taught me how to become a listener who cares.

In most interactions, I feel this is one of the best approaches to take in a conversation because no one wants to talk to someone and not be heard. In addition, I feel this style is most appropriate for friends and family because you usually are speaking on a more personal level. However, when speaking to someone of authority like an employer or teacher, another approach might be more appropriate like “content centered.” Thus, I feel different listening styles are appropriate for when having a conversation with certain people and certain topics.

Whenever I am speaking to one of my guy friends, they always start to talk about current sports. However, my listening approach, “ people centered” doesn’t really work in this situation because their conversation is more content and time centered. When speaking with them I know I have to change my approach to keep up with all the stats and games they are talking about.