Using this type of listening style builds trust and positive interactions. Empathetic ListeningĪs the name implies, empathic listening is based on understanding beyond the facts and providing support and empathy to the speaker. Developing informational listening skills is ideal for beginning a new job or self-development study. They are also likely to take physical notes and pay attention to body language. Those who use informational listening are usually in school or work in an office setting. We use informational, critical and empathic styles when we listen to people. 8 Different Types of Listening Skills & StylesĪs now you know the importance of listening skills, let’s know how the different styles of listening work. It's always best to understand the listener's style to create an effective communication strategy. These differences are vital in business, politics and other communication situations. However, when people are speaking with each other, they should be aware of their listening style so as to ensure that they get the message across. They may not fully understand the speaker's message or feel able to ask probing questions. Time-oriented listeners are often focused on completing tasks, and they are quick to make decisions and verbally state time constraints.ĭiscriminative listeners do not always give heed to the content of the speaker. Content-oriented listeners enjoy complex information and are typically considered credible.
They may be distracted from the message or task at hand, but they enjoy complex messages and multiple perspectives on a given issue. For example, people-oriented listeners are primarily concerned with the needs and feelings of others. There are eight general listening styles, each of which has its own distinct characteristics. Therefore, it becomes hard to recognise the words no matter if they already know them.į Also Read: Entrepreneurship Skills You Should Have in 2022 to Become Successful in Your Business Why Are Listening Skills Important to Communicate? In simple words, they quickly forget what they heard. This article explains the importance of understanding the listening styles and highlights the vital points of the 8 main listening types.Īccording to Goh's Study, the basic issue that students face in listening is the frequency order. According to the listener, you may need to change your speaking tone. Understanding the listening style of the person to whom you're talking is very important, especially when it's critical for you to convey your message to the listener perfectly. There are many listening styles entirely different from each other. Some people pay more attention to details, while some pay especially attention to time. It’s a general way that a person listens to the words of another. Understanding the importance of listening style is easy.