One often comes across people in both personal and professional circles who do not listen. After all, communication is a two-way process, but if one party to it is not receptive enough, it will hinder the progress, lead to miscommunication, or even strain relationships. Here are some strategies to effectively deal with them:
Assess the Situation
First, find out why the person is not listening. Are they distracted, disinterested, or overwhelmed? Knowing the reason behind it may help you in deciding on your approach. Sometimes a person wouldn’t listen because he might be preoccupied with another work or stressed about something unrelated.
Be Clear and Concise
Bring across clearly to a person who doesn’t listen well. No long-winding speeches should be made, nor bombarding them with too much information. Get straight to the point and drive home the essential ideas you want them to get. This might help keep their interest and ensure they capture the main points.
Engage Their Interest
Try making it more engaging by relating it to them—either their interests or needs. If they notice a direct benefit or relevance to their own tasks or goals, they are more likely to heed attention. Use examples or anecdotes that hit close to home.
Create an Optimal Environment
Sometimes, poor listening is outside of a person’s control. Ensure that the setting is right. Pick a quiet, comfortable spot with minimal distractions. This may mean putting off a conversation until a better time if conditions aren’t right at present.
Active Listening Techniques
Model the behavior you want to see. Show that you are listening to them by nodding, making eye contact, and providing feedback. Paraphrase their points to demonstrate understanding. This may then prompt them to start acting similarly and listen more to you.
Ask for Feedback
If one feels that his or her message is not being understood, he or she should ask for feedback. Questions like, “Can you summarize what I just said?” or “What are your thoughts on this?” can help confirm that they have understood your points. It also sends a signal that they are valued as well, for their input since it increases the chances of their engagement.
Address the Issue Directly
If this persists, state it directly but tactfully. Explain the implications of not being heard, and assert your need to be communicated with properly. Be sure to approach this conversation with empathy and a collaborative mindset.
Patience and Empathy
Realize that everyone has moments when they are not so good at listening, and at times, there are factors beyond their control. Show a little patience and try to be in their shoes, then give them time. Your understanding will predispose a better communication dynamic.
It entails effort from both parties. Using these strategies will greatly improve your interactions and reduce some of that stress that results from dealing with people who just don’t seem to hear. Be patient and persistent, as it is going to be a habit that will help you make better communication.
