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effective communication is caring about those with whom one is
communicating or trying to do so. Much can be forgiven about style or
finesse if concern for one another is demonstrated. However, there are
some key techniques that can be used to improve communication.

Probably, the most important of these is the ability to listen.

Effective Listening

We have been given two ears and but a single mouth, in order that we may
hear more and talk less. Zeno of Citrium.

Listening is not a skill; it’s a discipline. Anybody can do it. Peter Drucker.

Listening effectively is a particularly important communication skill that can
be learned. It helps build relationships, solve problems, ensure
understanding, resolve conflicts, and improve accuracy. At work, effective
listening means fewer errors and less wasted time. Unfortunately, it does
not seem to be part of human nature to listen to others with an attitude of

caring and understanding. As you work with others to be more
collaborative, the key to success is the ability not only to speak clearly but
also to listen with understanding. Good listening means understanding
the speaker’s total message. Unfortunately, our culture in the U.S.
apparently tends to value effective speaking more than it values good

listening.

Clearly, we can never be absolutely certain that we have completely or
accurately understood another person. Therefore, it is essential to test the
accuracy of our listening and minimize the misunderstanding and

distortion that occurs in most interpersonal communication. Sadly, we are
usually poor judges of our own listening skills.

Heaven is a place where the wicked cease from troubling you with talk of
their personal affairs, and the good listen with attention while you expound
your own. Ambrose Bierce in his The Devil’s Dictionary.

A bore is a person who talks when you wish him to listen.

David Kolzow 131